Watch for red flags.
You could be dealing with a scammer if they:
- Contact you out of nowhere. If you get an unexpected email, text, call or social media message asking for money or information, it could be a scam.
- Pose as someone you trust. Scammers pretend to be figures like government officials, companies, or even friends and family. Don’t trust caller ID to verify their identity.
- Pressure you to act fast. Scammers often use limited-time offers, threats or emergencies to rush you into making quick decisions.
- Try to manipulate your emotions. If you feel like someone is playing on emotions like fear, sympathy or excitement to influence your decisions, it might be a scam.
- Request specific forms of payment. Scammers usually insist that you pay using cryptocurrency, wire transfers, payment apps or gift cards.
The STOP method can help protect you.
These steps can help you stay ahead of scammers.
- Stay cautious. Always be on alert when someone asks for information or money.
- Take your time. Scammers want to rush you. Slow down and think before you act.
- Only trust verified sources. Double-check information through trusted channels.
- Protect your info. Never share personal or financial details unless you’re sure who you’re dealing with.
Make sure it’s really us.
Scammers are impersonating financial institutions, including USAA. You can report unusual calls, texts, emails and links to abuse@usaa.com (Opens in New Window).
- Phone calls and texts: We’ll never call or text to ask for your password, PIN or one-time code. If someone calls or texts you claiming to be one of our employees and asks for any of these things, it could be a scam.
- Emails from USAA: Our emails have a personalized "USAA Security Zone.” It includes your name and the last four digits of your USAA number. If the information is wrong or missing, it’s not from us.
- The USAA Mobile App: Make sure to download our app from an official app store. The developer should be listed as USAA. Our app is free — if it asks you to pay, it’s not really us.
Identify and avoid scams FAQ
We have sophisticated security practices in place, but we're most effective in fighting fraud when we work together. You should monitor your account regularly and strengthen your logon security.
- Call us if you gave out any information. If you received a call or text and provided any personal information, like your password or other logon information, call us immediately at 800-531-USAA (8722).
- Report an unusual call, email or text. If you didn’t give out any info but want to report an unusual call, text or email, send an email to abuse@usaa.com. Include the phone number and details about the call or message.
If you notice any unusual activity, let us know immediately by calling 800-531-USAA (8722). Or you can read how to report fraud online.
You won’t be responsible for any unauthorized charges on your USAA Bank See note 1 credit card See note 2 or debit card See note 3 that you report to us.
Install security patches. Set your device to install app and system updates automatically if possible. These updates often include security fixes.
Use antivirus software. Scan your storage devices and remove any malware. Or you can install an application that specializes in removing spyware.
Get professional help if needed. If possible, save important files and applications on an external storage device before you drop off your computer.
Act quickly by following these steps.
- If you have remote wipe enabled, use it to prevent someone from accessing your data and apps. Your service provider may also be able to help.
- Let USAA and any other financial institutions know your phone is missing.
- Change any account names and passwords that may have been stored on your device.
- Log on to cloud services to disable remote access and alerts for any mobile apps you have linked to your missing phone.
- File a police report, if necessary.
Think you might be a victim of fraud?
We’ll walk you through next steps and get you the help you need.
