What Is the Frozen Account Scam?
Scammers are impersonating bank fraud departments and calling or texting people, claiming their accounts have been frozen due to suspicious activity. As a result, these fake alerts are meant to create panic and trick victims into providing sensitive information or taking risky actions.
How the Scam Works
Typically, you receive a phone call, robocall, or text message purporting to be from your bank. The message says your account is locked or frozen due to fraud, and you must act quickly to avoid penalties or permanent restrictions. Next, the scammer then asks for login credentials and card numbers or prompts you to click a link or call a fake number, which further compromises your account.
Example of the Scam in Action
For example, Jasmine got a call claiming her account had been frozen for unusual transactions. The person sounded professional and asked her to verify her account number and PIN to reactivate her card. Unfortunately, she trusted the caller and provided the information, only to find her account empty the next day.
How to Protect Yourself From Frozen Account Scam Calls
Don’t trust caller ID
Scammers can spoof phone numbers to make it look like the call is from your bank.
Hang up and call us directly at 405-945.2265
Instead, use the number on the back of your debit card or our official website. Do not use any phone number given during the call.
Never share PINs, passwords, or full account numbers
A real bank will never ask for this information over the phone. Remember, a legitimate bank representative will never ask for this information over the phone.
Be wary of urgency
Additionally, scammers try to rush you into action – and errors in judgment – with threats of locked funds or account closures.
Use account alerts to monitor real activity
Set up text or email alerts for withdrawals or login attempts.
If You Think You’ve Been Scammed
If you believe you’ve been targeted, take these steps immediately:
Contact us and any financial institution you work with
First, if you believe that your account information has been compromised or if you have mistakenly given money to a scam, let us know immediately.
Report the scam to the FTC
Next, file a report with the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.FTC.gov. Inform local law enforcement as well.
Report the scam to the state attorney general
Also, find contact information for your state at NAAG.org
Change your online banking credentials
Finally, update your passwords and enable multifactor authentication to secure your account.
Most importantly, staying informed about common banking scams is one of the best ways to protect your finances and personal information. For additional fraud prevention tools, educational resources, and identity protection tips, visit our Identity Theft Resource Center to learn how to recognize threats and safeguard your identity.
Think You’ve Received a Suspicious Call?
If you believe you’re received a fraudulent call or shared personal information with a scammer, contact us immediately. Our team can help you protect your accounts and take the appropriate next steps.



