Scammers are using increasingly deceptive tactics to trick individuals into handing over their money. Posing as law enforcement or financial institution representatives, they may instruct victims to transfer money via Apple Pay or withdraw cash and mail it to a supposed “safe” location.

These are scams. No legitimate organization will ever ask you to move money using third-party apps or send cash through the mail.

How the Scams Work:

You may receive a call or message from someone claiming to be with the FBI, police, or a financial institution. They may claim:

• Your account has been compromised.
• Your funds are at risk.
• You must act quickly to avoid legal trouble or financial loss.

They’ll then instruct you to either:

• Transfer funds via Apple Pay or another payment app, or
• Withdraw large amounts of cash and mail it to an address they provide, claiming it will be “secured” or “verified.”

Red Flags to Watch For:

• Unexpected calls or texts demanding urgent action
• Instructions to use Apple Pay, Zelle, Venmo, or other apps to move money
• Requests to withdraw cash and mail it to an unknown party
• Threats of arrest, account suspension, or legal action
• Spoofed caller ID that appears local or official

How to Protect Yourself:

• Hang up immediately on suspicious calls or messages
• Do not send money or withdraw cash based on a phone call or text
• Never share personal or account information unless you initiated the contact
• Verify any request by calling your financial institution using a trusted number
• Trust your instincts—if it feels off, it probably is

If You’ve Been Contacted or Targeted:

• Do not engage with the scammer
• Call us immediately at 800.633.2848
• Report the scam to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov and your local law enforcement agency

Staying informed is your best defense. Share this warning with others—especially seniors or those less familiar with current scam tactics.