untrappable

Bank of America text scam: is that alert real?

Editorially reviewed · Last updated June 16, 2026

Yes — this is a scam. Bank of America doesn't text you links to "unlock" or "confirm" your account.

Text Message · Today 8:41 AM
from +1 (218) 555-0182
Bank of America: We've temporarily frozen your account after a $1,750 charge in another state. Confirm it wasn't you here: bofa-secure-verify.info/restore
The Text message, as received

Other versions you might get: A text about a card being locked, a login from a new device, a payment you need to "authorize," or a code to "stop" a transfer you never made.

What to do right now

  1. Don't tap the link or call any number in the text. Don't reply — even "STOP" tells them your number is live.
  2. Check your account the safe way. Open the Bank of America app yourself, or call the number on the back of your card. If there's a real problem, it'll show there.
  3. If you already tapped or entered details: call Bank of America from the number on your card, change your password and PIN, and watch your account for charges you don't recognize.
  4. Report it. Forward the text to 7726 (SPAM), then file at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
  5. Delete the message.

How to make sure it never bites you

You got this because your number is on a list scammers buy and resell — it has nothing to do with your actual bank. Get it removed and put a layer between you and them — see how to stop spam texts for good.

A public service

Help protect someone else

Scams spread because people stay quiet about them. If this could have fooled you, it can fool someone you know — a parent, a friend, the family group chat. Passing it on is the easiest good thing you'll do today. It's safe to forward, and stands on its own as a record for a bank or the police.