Fake Bank 'New Payee Added' Verification Text Scam Examples
Texts claiming a new payee was added to your account create panic and direct you to a fake page or callback number to 'cancel' it — handing over your login or card details.
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
Sanitized example messages
Illustrative, sanitized examples. Personal details are replaced with placeholders such as [phone number] and [fake link].
[Bank]: A new payee [name] has been added to your account. If this wasn't you, cancel here: [fake link]
ALERT from [Bank]: Outgoing transfer of [amount] to [payee] authorised. Not you? Call [fake number] immediately.
[Bank] Security: Your account payee list was updated on [date]. Verify your identity to protect your account: [fake link]
Unusual activity: new bank transfer payee added. If you didn't do this, tap to cancel within 15 minutes: [fake link]
What the scammer wants
To make you panic and either click a phishing link or call a spoofed number, where you are tricked into providing login credentials, one-time codes, or authorising a 'reverse transfer' that actually moves money to the scammer.
Red flags in the message
- Urgency with a very short window to 'cancel'
- A link to a domain that is not your bank's official website
- A callback number embedded in the text rather than the number on your card
- Request for a one-time code, PIN, or password over phone or link
- Texts from a new number even though your bank always uses the same one
A safe response
Do not click or call back. Log in to your bank app directly by typing the address or using your app, and check the payee list there. If in doubt, call the number on the back of your card only.
What not to send
- Online banking passwords or PINs
- One-time passcodes (OTPs)
- Full card details
What to do if you already replied
- Call your bank's fraud line using the number on your card or bank statement immediately
- Change your online banking password and revoke any sessions
- Report the text to your national messaging-abuse service (e.g. 7726 in the UK)
Evidence to preserve
- Screenshot the full message or call details
- Note the sender number, email, or profile
- Save any links (without clicking) and payment details
- Record dates and times