Banking & payment scams

Is this fake bank refund message a scam?

Likely scam High risk SMS, Email

Commonly seen since 2023. Last reviewed 2026-06-05.

Example only - do not act on it

Example only: [bank name placeholder]: you're owed a refund. Confirm your account details to receive it: [fake-link removed]

Why this message is suspicious

Refunds you're genuinely owed don't require you to 'confirm' details via a link.
The promise of money lowers your guard.
The page captures banking and card details.

What the scammer wants

Your full card details entered on a fake page
Personal details to pass bank security checks
A foothold for larger unauthorised charges

Common variations

Example only: Tax/refund credit pending - verify to claim: [fake-link removed].
Example only: Click to accept your refund: [fake-link removed]

Red flags to watch for

Payment Request Fake Authority Suspicious Link Credentials

What to do now

Don't act on the message or call back the number in it.
Call your bank only using the number printed on your card or in the official app, and log in through the official app - never via a message link.
If anything was shared, contact your bank now and report it to your national authority.

What not to do

Do not share OTPs, passwords, card numbers, or PINs with anyone.
Do not tap links or call numbers from the message.
Do not move money to a 'safe account' - that request is always a scam.

If you already responded

Act quickly - the sooner you respond, the more you can limit. Find the situation that matches what you did:

If you clicked a link: Close the page; don't enter card, login, or codes.If you entered details on it, treat them as compromised and tell your bank.Watch for follow-up 'bank security' calls - those are part of the scam.

If you paid: Call your bank or payment provider immediately using the number on your card or app.Ask them to attempt a recall/stop and to flag your account for fraud.Keep evidence (screenshots, references) and report it officially.

If you shared a code, OTP, or login: Never share a one-time code - your bank will never ask you to read one out.If you shared a code, change your banking password and call the bank now.Turn on app-based two-step verification where possible.

If you only clicked the link but entered nothing: close the page, don't enter anything, and watch the linked accounts for unusual activity. Full steps →

If you entered card details: contact your bank now to freeze the card and dispute charges, then watch your statement. Full steps →

If you shared an OTP or one-time code: the scammer may be logging in right now - change the password, sign out other sessions, and turn on app-based 2FA. Full steps →

If you sent money: contact your bank or payment provider immediately to try to stop or recall it, and report it. Full steps →

If you installed an app / gave remote access: disconnect from the internet, uninstall it, and change key passwords from a different, trusted device. Full steps →

If you shared passport, ID, or KYC documents: watch for identity theft, consider a credit freeze or fraud alert, and keep the evidence. Full steps →

Watch out for a second scam. People who've just lost money are often contacted again by a fake "recovery" service promising to get it back for an upfront fee. Legitimate recovery never starts with a fee paid to someone who contacted you - see recovery scams.

First time dealing with this? Start with the first 24 hours after a scam checklist and how to save evidence.

How to verify safely

Call your bank only using the number printed on your card or in the official app, and log in through the official app - never via a message link.

How to report it

Report through official channels for your country. Use our scam reporting directory to find the right authority, and never use phone numbers or links from the suspicious message itself. If an official link looks outdated, tell us so we can review it.

Official sources checked

FTC Consumer Advice - Imposter scams High reliability

Government alert
CFPB - Classic warning signs of fraud and scams High reliability

Government consumer advisory

Reviewed 2026-06-05. See our methodology for how we select sources.

Related platforms

Email scams

Report in your country

Related terms

Frequently asked questions

Is the refund message real?

Check directly with your bank or the official body. Genuine refunds don't need you to enter details on a linked page.