Online Threat Alerts (OTA) - Alerting you to scams and frauds.

Citibank Scam Calls - How to Protect Yourself
Citibank Scam Calls - How to Protect Yourself

Citibank scam calls are a common form of "vishing" (voice phishing) where fraudsters impersonate bank employees or law enforcement to steal your money or identity. They often use advanced caller ID spoofing to make your phone display "Citibank," "Citi Fraud Dept," or actual Citibank phone numbers, even though the call is originating from a scammer.

Common Tactics Used by Scammers

  • The "Firearms Purchase" Scare: Callers claim a new card was opened in your name to buy firearms (often quoting a specific amount like $1,700–$2,800), then threaten an FBI or police investigation if you do not cooperate.
  • The Fake Fraud Alert Text Follow-up: You receive a text asking you to confirm a major transaction (like a $1,000 Zelle transfer). When you reply "No" or "Deny," the scammer immediately calls you to "fix" the issue.
  • The "Inside Job" Safe Account Scam: Fraudsters claim corrupt employees at your local branch are draining your account. They instruct you to withdraw your cash or transfer it to a "secure government vault" or "safe account".
  • Legal Threats: Scammers claim you owe money on an old credit card from years ago and threaten jail time or immediate legal service if you do not pay.

Red Flags to Watch For

  • Urgency & Panic: They pressure you to act immediately to stop a transaction or avoid arrest.
  • Asking for Credentials: They will ask for your User ID, password, full Social Security Number, or security question answers.
  • Demands for Secrecy: They explicitly tell you not to mention the call to any branch employees or family members.
  • One-Time Passcodes: They ask you to read back a verification code sent to your mobile phone (which actually lets them log into your account).

What to Do If You Receive a Call

  1. Hang Up Immediately: Do not argue, press numbers, or verify any personal information.
  2. Call Back Securely: Use the official phone number printed on the back of your physical credit/debit card, or log directly into the verified Citi Online Security Center.
  3. Use the App: If a real fraud agent is calling, you can request they send an authentication push notification directly through your official Citi Mobile app to verify their identity
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