“PNC Transaction Pending Approve/Device” Text Message Scam

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Written by: Stelian Pilici

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If you are a PNC customer, you may have received a text message claiming that you have a pending transaction that needs your approval or decline. But before you respond or click on any links, be aware that this is a phishing scam that aims to steal your personal and financial information. In this article, we will explain what this scam is, how it works, and what to do if you have fallen victim to it.

PNC Approve Decline Scam 8482449933

What is the “PNC Transaction Pending Approve/Device” text message scam?

The “PNC Transaction Pending Approve/Device” Text Message Scam is a type of phishing, which is an attempt by fraudsters to impersonate a trusted company or individual and trick you into revealing your sensitive data, such as your account number, password, PIN, or Social Security number. The scammers send you a text message that appears to be from PNC, using a spoofed phone number or sender name. The message claims that you have a transaction in pending status and asks you to call an 888 number or follow a link to approve or decline it. The message may also create a sense of urgency or threaten you with consequences if you do not act quickly.

Here is how the “PNC Transaction Pending Approve/Device” Text Message scam looks like:

([PNC]You have one transaction in pending 8482449933 – ID1005) Reach us to approve/decline

How does the “PNC Transaction Pending Approve/Device” text message scam work?

If you call the scam number or click on the link provided in the text message, you will be connected to a fake customer service representative or a fraudulent website that looks like PNC’s official site. The scammers will then ask you to verify your identity by providing your personal or account-related information, such as your name, address, date of birth, account number, password, PIN, or Social Security number. They may also ask you to confirm some transactions or authorize some transfers. By doing so, they will gain access to your account and be able to steal your money or identity.

What to do if you have fallen victim to the “PNC Transaction Pending Approve/Device” text message scam?

If you suspect that you have responded to a fraudulent text message and disclosed your personal or account-related information, you should take the following steps as soon as possible:

  1. Change your PNC online and mobile banking username and password.
  2. Contact PNC directly at 888-PNC-BANK (888-762-2265) or stop by your local branch and report the incident.
  3. Review your financial statements and online transaction activity for any unauthorized charges or transfers.
  4. Check your credit report for any suspicious activity and place a fraud alert or a security freeze on your credit profile.
  5. Report the scam to PNC Abuse (abuse@pnc.com) by forwarding the text message or taking a screenshot of it.
  6. Use a browser-based content blocker, like AdGuard : Content blockers help stop malicious ads, Trojans, phishing, and other undesirable content that an antivirus product alone may not stop.
  7. Scan your device for malware. If you suspect your device is infected with malware, you can run a scan with Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free.

Final Thoughts

The “PNC Transaction Pending Approve/Device” text message scam is one of the many phishing attempts that target consumers through their mobile phones. To avoid falling for such scams, you should always be wary of unexpected texts or emails that ask you to provide personal or financial information or follow links. You should also verify the source of any communication before responding or clicking on anything. Remember that PNC will never ask you to click on a link from a text message or request your user ID and password over the phone. If you have any doubts about the legitimacy of a text message or an email from PNC, contact them directly using their official website or phone number.

How to Stay Safe Online

Here are 10 basic security tips to help you avoid malware and protect your device:

  1. Use a good antivirus and keep it up-to-date.

    Shield Guide

    It's essential to use a good quality antivirus and keep it up-to-date to stay ahead of the latest cyber threats. We are huge fans of Malwarebytes Premium and use it on all of our devices, including Windows and Mac computers as well as our mobile devices. Malwarebytes sits beside your traditional antivirus, filling in any gaps in its defenses, and providing extra protection against sneakier security threats.

  2. Keep software and operating systems up-to-date.

    updates-guide

    Keep your operating system and apps up to date. Whenever an update is released for your device, download and install it right away. These updates often include security fixes, vulnerability patches, and other necessary maintenance.

  3. Be careful when installing programs and apps.

    install guide

    Pay close attention to installation screens and license agreements when installing software. Custom or advanced installation options will often disclose any third-party software that is also being installed. Take great care in every stage of the process and make sure you know what it is you're agreeing to before you click "Next."

  4. Install an ad blocker.

    Ad Blocker

    Use a browser-based content blocker, like AdGuard. Content blockers help stop malicious ads, Trojans, phishing, and other undesirable content that an antivirus product alone may not stop.

  5. Be careful what you download.

    Trojan Horse

    A top goal of cybercriminals is to trick you into downloading malware—programs or apps that carry malware or try to steal information. This malware can be disguised as an app: anything from a popular game to something that checks traffic or the weather.

  6. Be alert for people trying to trick you.

    warning sign

    Whether it's your email, phone, messenger, or other applications, always be alert and on guard for someone trying to trick you into clicking on links or replying to messages. Remember that it's easy to spoof phone numbers, so a familiar name or number doesn't make messages more trustworthy.

  7. Back up your data.

    backup sign

    Back up your data frequently and check that your backup data can be restored. You can do this manually on an external HDD/USB stick, or automatically using backup software. This is also the best way to counter ransomware. Never connect the backup drive to a computer if you suspect that the computer is infected with malware.

  8. Choose strong passwords.

    lock sign

    Use strong and unique passwords for each of your accounts. Avoid using personal information or easily guessable words in your passwords. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on your accounts whenever possible.

  9. Be careful where you click.

    cursor sign

    Be cautious when clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown sources. These could potentially contain malware or phishing scams.

  10. Don't use pirated software.

    Shady Guide

    Avoid using Peer-to-Peer (P2P) file-sharing programs, keygens, cracks, and other pirated software that can often compromise your data, privacy, or both.

To avoid potential dangers on the internet, it's important to follow these 10 basic safety rules. By doing so, you can protect yourself from many of the unpleasant surprises that can arise when using the web.

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