Fraudsters are getting more sophisticated, and one of the latest scams involves phone calls that appear to come from your financial institution. These criminals use caller ID spoofing to make it look like they’re calling from Horicon Bank, but in reality, they are trying to steal your personal and financial information.
We’ve received reports from customers saying the calls displayed the phone number printed on the back of their Horicon Bank debit or credit card.
How the Scam Works
The fraudster calls you and claims to be from the bank’s fraud department. They may sound convincing and reference a false transaction to gain your trust. Then, they ask you to confirm sensitive information, such as:
- The last digits of your debit or credit card
- Card expiration date or CVV code
- Your Social Security number
- Online banking credentials
Horicon Bank will NEVER call you and request this type of information. If you receive a call like this, do not provide any details. Hang up immediately.
The New Twist
In the newest version of this scam, once the victim provides their card information, the fraudsters initiate a transaction while still on the phone with the customer. This triggers a legitimate fraud alert from the card provider—usually via text or email—asking you to verify the activity.
The fraudster then says something like:
"You may have received a message to verify the activity. Please reply ‘YES’ so we can resolve this issue."
By replying “YES,” you are actually authorizing the fraudulent transaction, giving the criminal exactly what they want.
How to Recognize Spoofed Calls
Caller ID spoofing makes it look like the call is coming from a trusted number, but here are signs it’s a scam:
- Unexpected Requests for Sensitive Information. Legitimate banks will never ask for card numbers, CVV codes, Social Security numbers, or online banking credentials over the phone.
- Urgency or Pressure Tactics. Fraudsters often create a sense of urgency, claiming your account will be locked or funds lost unless you act immediately.
- Instructions to Ignore Official Alerts. If someone tells you to reply “YES” to a fraud alert or ignore a security message, that’s a red flag.
- Caller ID Isn’t Proof. Even if the number looks like Horicon Bank’s, it can be spoofed. Always verify by calling a known number directly.
- Unusual Language or Tone. Be cautious if the caller uses overly technical language, seems scripted, or avoids answering your questions directly.
What Should You Do?
If you suspect a call is fraudulent:
- Hang up the phone immediately.
- Do NOT respond to any verification texts or emails while on the call.
- Call Horicon Bank directly using a known, trusted phone number—such as the one on your debit card or our official website.
Your security is our top priority. Staying alert and cautious is the best defense against scams.
Questions? Call us at 920-485-7311 or 888-343-3040.