Bank of America 844-844-0585 Text Scam from 22498

The Bank of America Text Scam

From: 22498

Bank of America: $218.40 Purchase at Target store #5195 In Chicago, IL. YES? Reply Y. NO? Use: +1(844) 844-0585 to call us now. Reply

STOP to opt out

What You Should Do

• Do not call the number listed in the text message.
• Call the official number printed on the back of your physical debit or credit card if you want to verify your account status.

Spot the Red Flags

• The text asks you to call a specific number: Legitimate fraud alerts ask you to reply "YES" or "NO" to confirm a specific transaction; they do not instruct you to call an unverified 10-digit number.
• The message creates artificial panic: Scammers use high-pressure language (e.g., "your account is locked," "unauthorized transfer of $500") to scare you into acting quickly without thinking.

Understand the Danger of Calling

If you dial the number provided in the text, you will connect with a highly polished scammer or a realistic-sounding automated voice menu. They will attempt to steal your data by walking you through a "verification process":

• Personal Identifiers: They will ask for your full Social Security Number, ZIP code, or mother's maiden name.
• Online Banking Credentials: They will prompt you for your online banking username, password, or full debit card number.
• Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) Codes: While on the phone, the scammer will try to log into your real account, triggering a 6-digit security code text to your device. They will ask you to read this code aloud, allowing them to bypass your security and drain your funds.

Handle the Message Safely

1. Report it to the bank: Take a screenshot of the text and forward it directly to abuse@bofa.com.
2. Report it to your carrier: Forward the spam text message to 7726 (SPAM) to help your mobile carrier block the sender.
3. Block and delete: Block the sender's number on your phone and delete the conversation.