{"id":365970,"date":"2025-11-09T17:49:39","date_gmt":"2025-11-09T17:49:39","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/?p=365970"},"modified":"2025-11-09T17:49:40","modified_gmt":"2025-11-09T17:49:40","slug":"bank-of-america-target-purchase-phone-call-scam-exposed","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/bank-of-america-target-purchase-phone-call-scam-exposed\/","title":{"rendered":"Bank of America Target Purchase Phone Call Scam Exposed"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It starts with a voicemail that sounds urgent &#8211; maybe you even missed a call.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad3269185517\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_309684--placement_360520\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"3957935887\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201c<strong>Bank of America \u2013 a purchase was declined for $319.55 at Target.com. Press 1 if you recognize this purchase, or call our fraud department immediately.<\/strong>\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The message feels real. It mentions a specific amount, a trusted retailer, and the name of your bank. You might even glance at your phone, thinking your debit card was compromised. But here\u2019s the truth: <strong>this is not Bank of America calling you.<\/strong><\/p><div id=\"mwtad2268776788\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_381396-ad_309691-placement_360566\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1471373341\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is a <strong>phone-based phishing scam<\/strong> &#8211; a coordinated fraud attempt by criminals impersonating the bank\u2019s fraud department. Their goal is to trick you into revealing personal information, remote-controlling your phone, or transferring money under the pretense of \u201cprotecting your account.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In this in-depth guide, you\u2019ll learn exactly how the <strong>Bank of America Target Purchase Phone Call Scam<\/strong> works, what to watch out for, and what steps to take if you\u2019ve already interacted with the scammers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"860\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/scam-4-2-1024x860.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-365971\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/scam-4-2-1024x860.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/scam-4-2-300x252.jpg 300w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/scam-4-2-1536x1290.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/scam-4-2-2048x1720.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"mwtad4026262980\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_309746-ad_309691-placement_360521\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"4456629336\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Scam Overview<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The <strong>Bank of America Target Purchase Scam<\/strong> is a <strong>voice phishing attack<\/strong>, or <strong>vishing scam<\/strong>, that uses fake automated phone calls or voicemails to trick customers into believing there\u2019s fraudulent activity on their account.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad350388308\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_309686-ad_309691-placement_360569\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"6935453015\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The scam usually begins with a <strong>recorded message<\/strong> claiming that a <strong>Target.com purchase was declined for a specific amount (often around $319.55)<\/strong>. The message then asks you to <strong>press a number<\/strong> or <strong>call back a specific phone number<\/strong> to confirm or dispute the transaction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The call sounds legitimate because:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>It uses <strong>Bank of America\u2019s name<\/strong>,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It references <strong>Target<\/strong>, a well-known retailer,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It includes a <strong>realistic purchase amount<\/strong>, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It mimics the tone and wording of actual <strong>bank fraud alerts<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Example of a Scam Voicemail<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cBank of America, a purchase was declined for $319.55 at Target.com. Press 1 if you recognize this purchase. If you do not recognize this purchase, call our fraud department immediately at [number].\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">At first glance, nothing seems suspicious. Many banks, including Bank of America, do send automated alerts for potential fraud. But the <strong>key difference<\/strong> is that legitimate fraud alerts never ask you to <strong>call back an unknown number<\/strong> or provide <strong>sensitive information<\/strong> over the phone.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad679922111\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_381401-ad_309691-placement_360573\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"5315249587\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Why It\u2019s So Convincing<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Scammers design these calls to sound exactly like real automated fraud detection systems.<br \/>They often use:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Synthetic voices<\/strong> that resemble official bank systems,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Spoofed caller IDs<\/strong> showing \u201cBank of America\u201d or local area codes,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Realistic dollar amounts<\/strong> and retailers, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Carefully crafted timing<\/strong> \u2014 such as calling during business hours or weekends when you\u2019re shopping.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Everything about the call is engineered to make you think it\u2019s urgent and real.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What the Scammers Want<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The ultimate goal is <strong>money and information<\/strong>.<br \/>By posing as a bank\u2019s fraud department, scammers attempt to:<\/p><div id=\"mwtad2030690492\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_381404-ad_309691-placement_381406\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"8735619847\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Collect your card details<\/strong> \u2014 including number, CVV, and expiration date.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Gain access to your online banking account<\/strong> by requesting your username and password.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Obtain verification codes<\/strong> (2FA) sent to your phone.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Convince you to transfer money<\/strong> to a \u201csafe account.\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Install remote-access apps<\/strong> under the guise of \u201csecurity verification.\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once they have access to your financial data, they can drain your accounts within minutes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Why Target Is Mentioned<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Target is one of the most frequently used brands in this scam. Why? Because:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>It\u2019s a <strong>household name<\/strong> that doesn\u2019t raise suspicion.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Purchases from Target.com are common and believable.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Scammers can use it to imply a legitimate shopping charge.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A fake transaction like <strong>\u201c$319.55 at Target.com\u201d<\/strong> is small enough to seem plausible but large enough to trigger concern. It\u2019s the perfect psychological pressure point.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad2288841560\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_360582-ad_309691-placement_360581\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"9971336976\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Bank of America\u2019s Name Adds Credibility<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">By attaching the Bank of America brand, scammers instantly gain trust.<br \/>Bank of America has over <strong>70 million customers<\/strong>, making it a prime target for impersonation.<br \/>These calls can reach both actual Bank of America customers and random phone numbers \u2014 many people assume it\u2019s real simply because they\u2019ve heard of the bank.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>The Fear Factor<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The scam leverages two psychological triggers:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Fear of losing money<\/strong>, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Urgency to act immediately.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Hearing \u201ca purchase was declined\u201d creates anxiety. You feel you must act now to prevent further fraud.<br \/>That\u2019s exactly what scammers count on \u2014 fear overrides logic, and people follow instructions without verifying the source.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad1156132692\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_360567-ad_309691-placement_360771\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"6224621518\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"mwtad3452707236\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_309747-ad_309691-placement_360587\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"9589536513\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How the Scam Works <\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">While this scam may appear simple, it\u2019s actually a <strong>multi-stage social engineering scheme<\/strong> involving automation, spoofing, and live manipulation. Here\u2019s how it unfolds in detail.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Step 1: The Fake Fraud Alert Call or Voicemail<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The scam begins with an <strong>automated call<\/strong> or <strong>voicemail<\/strong> like this:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cThis is Bank of America\u2019s fraud department. We\u2019ve detected a suspicious charge of $319.55 at Target.com. To confirm this purchase, press 1. To report this as fraudulent, press 2 or call our fraud department immediately.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you answer live, an <strong>interactive voice response (IVR)<\/strong> system simulates a bank menu. If you don\u2019t answer, they leave a voicemail urging you to call back.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad1659194043\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_360571-ad_309691-placement_360772\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"5867729999\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The caller ID may even display <strong>\u201cBank of America\u201d<\/strong> or a local number \u2014 this is called <strong>caller ID spoofing<\/strong>. The scammer\u2019s system manipulates how the number appears, making it seem legitimate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Step 2: The Callback Trap<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you call back, you\u2019re connected to a <strong>fake fraud agent<\/strong> who introduces themselves as from Bank of America\u2019s \u201cfraud prevention department.\u201d They sound professional, calm, and sympathetic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They\u2019ll immediately verify \u201cyour identity\u201d by asking for:<\/p><div id=\"mwtad2590220355\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_360576-ad_309691-placement_360773\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"6594472392\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Your <strong>full name<\/strong>,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Last four digits<\/strong> of your debit or credit card,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Date of birth<\/strong>, or<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Zip code<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They use these questions to make the conversation seem legitimate \u2014 but it\u2019s all part of building trust and collecting data.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Step 3: The Fake Investigation<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Next, the scammer explains that your account may be compromised and they\u2019re investigating fraudulent activity. They might say things like:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cWe\u2019re seeing multiple unauthorized attempts at Target.com. To protect your funds, we need to verify recent transactions and secure your account.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They may list <strong>fake recent purchases<\/strong> or <strong>mention your real bank balance<\/strong> (if they found partial info from data leaks or social media). This is where the scam becomes dangerous \u2014 the conversation feels authentic.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad2815578126\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_360583-ad_309691-placement_360774\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"8849826992\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Step 4: Capturing Your Credentials<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once you\u2019re comfortable, they\u2019ll request your <strong>online banking login credentials<\/strong> \u201cto confirm ownership.\u201d<br \/>They may say:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cFor verification, I\u2019m going to send you a security code from Bank of America. Please read it back to me when you receive it.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That code is actually a <strong>two-factor authentication code<\/strong> from the real Bank of America website, which the scammer is using in real time to log into your account.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"mwtad2268276005\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_360584-ad_309691-placement_360775\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"3952847241\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once they gain access, they can:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Transfer funds to external accounts,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Change your password,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Disable notifications, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Lock you out completely.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Step 5: The \u201cSecure Account\u201d Scam<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In some cases, scammers tell victims that their funds need to be moved to a \u201ctemporary safe account\u201d for protection.<br \/>They might say:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cYour current account is under review. We\u2019re creating a secure holding account where you can move your balance until we verify your transactions.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They\u2019ll walk you through <strong>Zelle<\/strong>, <strong>wire transfer<\/strong>, or <strong>ACH<\/strong> transactions to send your money directly to them \u2014 while convincing you it\u2019s just a temporary safety measure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Step 6: Remote Access Requests<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Advanced variants of the scam involve <strong>remote desktop or mobile access tools<\/strong>.<br \/>The scammers instruct you to install apps like:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>AnyDesk,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>TeamViewer,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>QuickSupport, or<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>LogMeIn.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They claim these tools allow them to \u201ccheck your mobile security\u201d or \u201chelp you reverse unauthorized transactions.\u201d<br \/>Once installed, they gain <strong>full control of your device<\/strong> and can monitor your banking app or copy sensitive data.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Step 7: Draining and Disappearing<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">After stealing your credentials or money, the scammers vanish.<br \/>The phone number becomes inactive or reroutes to a different call center.<br \/>Victims who realize what happened often discover:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Their <strong>Bank of America online access<\/strong> is locked,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Funds have been transferred via Zelle or wire,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fraudulent transactions appear on their account, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The phone number they called no longer exists.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"mwtad1050482697\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_309748-ad_309691-placement_360588\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"3906789406\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What to Do If You Have Fallen Victim to This Scam<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you\u2019ve received or responded to a <strong>Bank of America Target Purchase scam call<\/strong>, act fast.<br \/>Every minute matters when securing your financial accounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>1. Hang Up and Stop Communication<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you\u2019re currently speaking with someone claiming to be Bank of America about this purchase, <strong>hang up immediately<\/strong>. Do not provide any further information.<br \/>Remember \u2014 legitimate fraud agents will never pressure you or ask for codes over the phone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>2. Do Not Call the Number Back<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Do not redial or respond to voicemails. Scammers frequently rotate numbers and forward calls through virtual call systems. Always use official channels instead.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>3. Contact Bank of America Directly<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Call the number printed on the <strong>back of your debit or credit card<\/strong> (1-800-432-1000 in the U.S.) or log in to your account via the <strong>Bank of America mobile app<\/strong> or website.<br \/>Explain the situation \u2014 they can check for fraudulent activity, lock your accounts, and issue new cards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>4. Change Your Online Banking Credentials<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Immediately change your <strong>online banking username and password<\/strong>.<br \/>Use a strong, unique password not used on other sites.<br \/>If you gave out your security code, assume the scammer has already accessed your account and notify the bank.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>5. Check for Unauthorized Transfers<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Review your recent transactions carefully, especially:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Zelle transfers,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wire transfers,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>ACH debits, or<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Unfamiliar purchases.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If any unauthorized activity appears, report it as fraud immediately.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>6. Disable Remote Access Apps<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you installed any apps at the scammer\u2019s request (AnyDesk, TeamViewer, etc.), uninstall them immediately.<br \/>Then, perform a <strong>full security scan<\/strong> using reputable antivirus software or visit a professional repair service to check for malware.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>7. Report the Scam to Authorities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">File reports with:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>FTC:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/reportfraud.ftc.gov\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">reportfraud.ftc.gov<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3):<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ic3.gov\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">ic3.gov<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Bank of America:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bankofamerica.com\/security-center\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">security.bankofamerica.com<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Include the phone number, time of call, and any voicemail recordings if possible. This helps investigators block future scam networks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>8. Monitor Your Credit and Identity<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Scammers may have obtained enough information to commit <strong>identity theft<\/strong>.<br \/>Monitor your credit reports with:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Equifax<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Experian<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>TransUnion<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Consider placing a <strong>fraud alert<\/strong> or <strong>credit freeze<\/strong> on your accounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>9. Educate Family Members<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Share this information with family and friends \u2014 especially older relatives who are more frequently targeted.<br \/>Explain that <strong>banks never ask for verification codes, passwords, or remote access<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>10. Stay Alert for Follow-Up Scams<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Scammers often target victims again, pretending to be \u201crefund departments\u201d or \u201cfraud recovery teams.\u201d<br \/>If you\u2019ve been scammed once, they may contact you again claiming they can help recover your money. Don\u2019t trust unsolicited calls \u2014 hang up immediately.<\/p>\n\n\n<div id=\"mwtad3857041996\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_318930-ad_309691-placement_360589\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"3818335085\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2>Is Your Device Infected? Run a Free Malware Scan<\/h2>\n\n<p>Slow performance, constant pop-ups, or strange behavior? These are classic signs of a malware infection. The fastest way to find out is to scan your device with <strong>Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free<\/strong> \u2014 one of the most trusted malware removal tools available.<\/p>\n\n<p>The free version detects and removes the most common threats, including:<\/p>\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Adware<\/strong> \u2014 the cause of those annoying pop-ups<\/li>\n<li><strong>Browser hijackers<\/strong> \u2014 unwanted redirects and changed homepages<\/li>\n<li><strong>Trojans and spyware<\/strong> \u2014 hidden programs stealing your data<\/li>\n<li><strong>Potentially unwanted programs (PUPs)<\/strong> \u2014 software you never asked for<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p>\ud83d\udc49 <strong>Select your device below<\/strong> \u2014 Windows, Mac, or Android \u2014 then follow the simple steps to download Malwarebytes, scan your system, and remove any threats it finds. The whole process takes about 5 minutes.<\/p>\n\n<div class=\"su-tabs su-tabs-style-default su-tabs-mobile-stack\" data-active=\"1\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\" data-anchor-in-url=\"no\"><div class=\"su-tabs-nav\"><span class=\"\" data-url=\"\" data-target=\"blank\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">Malwarebytes for Windows<\/span><span class=\"\" data-url=\"\" data-target=\"blank\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">Malwarebytes for Mac<\/span><span class=\"\" data-url=\"\" data-target=\"blank\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">Malwarebytes for Android<\/span><\/div><div class=\"su-tabs-panes\"><div class=\"su-tabs-pane su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\" data-title=\"Malwarebytes for Windows\">\n\n<h3 id=\"windowsh3\" class=\"toch3\">Run a Malware Scan with Malwarebytes for Windows<\/h3>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Malwarebytes<\/strong> is one of the most popular and trusted anti-malware tools for Windows \u2014 and it&#8217;s completely free for removing infections. It catches threats that many antivirus programs miss, including adware, browser hijackers, and trojans. Follow the steps below to scan and clean your PC in just a few minutes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Download Malwarebytes<\/p> <p>Click the button below to download the latest version of <strong>Malwarebytes for Windows<\/strong> from the official source. The free version is all you need \u2014 it will scan your computer and remove adware, browser hijackers, and other malicious software at no cost.<\/p> <div class=\"mwt_download_box\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Malwarebytes Icon\" width=\"40\" height=\"40\" class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-81150 mwt_product_icon_logo\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/Malwarebytes-LOGO.png\" alt=\"Malwarebytes Logo\"\/><\/figure> <strong><a class=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/downloads\/MBSetup-076886.076886-consumer.exe\" onclick=\"window.open(&#039;https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/get\/malwarebytes-free&#039;);\">DOWNLOAD MALWAREBYTES FOR WINDOWS (FREE)<br \/>\n<\/a><\/strong><br \/><em class=\"small-text-disclaimer\">(The link opens in a new page where your download will start)<\/em><\/div><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li> <p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Install Malwarebytes<\/p>\n\n<p>When the download finishes, open your <strong>Downloads<\/strong> folder and <strong>double-click the MBSetup file<\/strong>. If Windows shows a <strong>User Account Control<\/strong> pop-up, click &#8220;<em>Yes<\/em>&#8221; to allow the installation.<\/p>\n\n \n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"975\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285934\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM1.jpg 975w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM1-300x154.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 975px) 100vw, 975px\" \/><\/figure>\n \n\n \n  \n\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Follow the On-Screen Prompts to Install Malwarebytes<\/p> \n\n<p>The setup wizard will walk you through a few quick screens:<\/p>\n\n<ul>\n \n  <li>\n    <p>Choose where you&#8217;re installing the program \u2014 &#8220;<strong>Personal Computer<\/strong>&#8221; or &#8220;<strong>Work Computer<\/strong>&#8221; \u2014 then click <strong>Next<\/strong>.<\/p>\n    \n    <figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\n      <img decoding=\"async\" width=\"737\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM3-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285953\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM3-1.jpg 737w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM3-1-300x204.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 737px) 100vw, 737px\" \/>\n    <\/figure>\n    \n  <\/li>\n  <li>\n    <p>Malwarebytes will now install on your device. This usually takes under a minute.<\/p>\n    \n    <figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\n      <img decoding=\"async\" width=\"759\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM4.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285937\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM4.jpg 759w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM4-300x198.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 759px) 100vw, 759px\" \/>\n    <\/figure>\n    \n  <\/li>\n  <li>\n    <p>When installation is complete, the &#8220;<strong>Welcome to Malwarebytes<\/strong>&#8221; screen will open automatically.<\/p>\n    \n    <figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\n      <img decoding=\"async\" width=\"705\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM6-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285951\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM6-1.jpg 705w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM6-1-300x213.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 705px) 100vw, 705px\" \/>\n    <\/figure>\n    \n  <\/li>\n  <li>\n    <p>On the final screen, click <strong>Open Malwarebytes<\/strong> to launch the program.<\/p>\n    \n    <figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\n      <img decoding=\"async\" width=\"749\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM5-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285952\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM5-1.jpg 749w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM5-1-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 749px) 100vw, 749px\" \/>\n    <\/figure>\n    \n  <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Enable &#8220;Scan for Rootkits&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>Before scanning, turn on rootkit detection so Malwarebytes can find even the most hidden threats. Click the <strong>Settings<\/strong> gear icon on the left side of the screen.\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"842\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM8.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285942\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM8.jpg 842w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM8-300x214.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 842px) 100vw, 842px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the settings menu, find &#8220;<strong>Scan for rootkits<\/strong>&#8221; and click the toggle so it turns blue.\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"841\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM9.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285943\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM9.jpg 841w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM9-300x214.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 841px) 100vw, 841px\" \/><\/figure>\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Done? Click &#8220;<strong>Dashboard<\/strong>&#8221; in the left pane to return to the main screen.\n\n <\/p><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Start the Scan<\/p> <p>Click the blue <strong>Scan<\/strong> button. Malwarebytes will automatically update its virus database and start checking your computer for malware.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"849\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM10.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285941\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM10.jpg 849w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM10-300x212.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 849px) 100vw, 849px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Wait for the Scan to Finish<\/p>\n<p>The scan checks your entire system for browser hijackers and other malicious programs, so it can take several minutes. Feel free to do something else \u2014 just check back occasionally to see the progress.<\/p>\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"842\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM11.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285944\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM11.jpg 842w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM11-300x214.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 842px) 100vw, 842px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Quarantine the Detected Threats<\/p>\n<p>When the scan is done, you&#8217;ll see a list of everything Malwarebytes found \u2014 malware, adware, and potentially unwanted programs. Click the &#8220;<strong>Quarantine<\/strong>&#8221; button to remove all of them at once.<\/p>\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"844\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM12.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285945\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM12.jpg 844w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM12-300x213.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 844px) 100vw, 844px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n<p>Malwarebytes will now remove the malicious files and registry entries and move them safely into quarantine.\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"842\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM13.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285946\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM13.jpg 842w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM13-300x214.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 842px) 100vw, 842px\" \/><\/figure>\n <\/p><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n  <p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Restart Your Computer<\/p>\n  <p>Some threats can only be fully removed after a reboot. If Malwarebytes asks you to restart, click <strong>Yes<\/strong>. Once you&#8217;re logged back in, your PC is clean and you can continue with the next steps in this guide.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"844\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM14.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285947\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM14.jpg 844w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM14-300x213.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 844px) 100vw, 844px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n<p>When the scan finishes, click <strong>Quarantine<\/strong> to remove everything Malwarebytes found. That&#8217;s it \u2014 your Windows PC is now clean of trojans, adware, and other malware, and should be back to running smoothly.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If your current antivirus allowed this malicious program on your computer, you may want to consider purchasing Malwarebytes Premium to protect against these types of threats in the future.<br \/>If you are still having problems with your computer after completing these instructions, then please follow one of the steps:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Run a computer scan with <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.eset.com\/us\/home\/online-scanner\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">ESET Online Scanner<\/a><\/strong><\/li><li>Ask for help in our <strong><a title=\"Malware Removal Assistance for Windows\" href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/forums\/windows-malware-removal-help-support.10\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Windows Malware Removal Help &amp; Support<\/a><\/strong> forum.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"su-tabs-pane su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\" data-title=\"Malwarebytes for Mac\">\n\n<h3 id=\"mach3\" class=\"toch3\">Run a Malware Scan with Malwarebytes for Mac<\/h3>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Malwarebytes for Mac<\/strong> is a free on-demand scanner that removes the malware other security software tends to miss \u2014 adware, browser hijackers, and unwanted programs included. Cleaning an infected Mac with Malwarebytes has always been completely free, and it&#8217;s our go-to recommendation. Follow the steps below to scan and clean your Mac in just a few minutes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Download Malwarebytes for Mac<\/p>\n<p>Click the button below to download the latest version of <strong>Malwarebytes for Mac<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<div class=\"mwt_download_box\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-81150 mwt_product_icon_logo\" title=\"Malwarebytes Icon\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/Malwarebytes-LOGO.png\" alt=\"Malwarebytes Logo\" width=\"40\" height=\"40\"\/><\/figure><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/prf.hn\/click\/camref:1011lvqrV\/creativeref:1011l100234\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">DOWNLOAD MALWAREBYTES FOR MAC (FREE)<\/a><\/strong><br \/><em>(The link opens in a new page where your download will start)<\/em><\/div>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Open the Malwarebytes setup file<\/p>\n<p>When the download finishes, open your <em>Downloads<\/em> folder and <strong>double-click the setup file<\/strong> to begin the installation.<\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-98734 alignnone\" title=\"Double-click on setup file to install Malwarebytes\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer.jpg\" alt=\"Double-click on setup file to install Malwarebytes\" width=\"750\" height=\"424\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer.jpg 750w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer-300x170.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/figure><p><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Follow the On-Screen Prompts to Install Malwarebytes<\/p>\n<p>The <em>Malwarebytes for Mac Installer<\/em> will guide you through a few quick screens. Click &#8220;<strong>Continue<\/strong>&#8221; and keep following the prompts until the installation completes.<\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-98735 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer-Step-1.jpg\" alt=\"Click Continue to install Malwarebytes for Mac\" width=\"750\" height=\"532\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer-Step-1.jpg 750w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer-Step-1-300x213.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/figure><p><\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-98736 alignnone\" title=\"Click again on Continue to install Malwarebytes for Mac for Mac\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer-Step-2.jpg\" alt=\"Click again on Continue to install Malwarebytes for Mac\" width=\"750\" height=\"531\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer-Step-2.jpg 750w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer-Step-2-300x212.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/figure><p><\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-98737 alignnone\" title=\"Click Install to install Malwarebytes on Mac\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer-Step-4.jpg\" alt=\"Click Install to install Malwarebytes on Mac\" width=\"750\" height=\"531\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer-Step-4.jpg 750w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer-Step-4-300x212.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/figure><p><\/p>\n<p>When the installation is complete, Malwarebytes opens to the <em>Welcome to Malwarebytes<\/em> screen. Click &#8220;<strong>Get started<\/strong>&#8220;.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Select &#8220;Personal Computer&#8221; or &#8220;Work Computer&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>Malwarebytes will ask what type of computer you&#8217;re installing it on. Click either <strong>Personal Computer<\/strong> or <strong>Work Computer<\/strong>, whichever applies.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-98740 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Select-Personal-Computer.jpg\" alt=\"Select Personal Computer or Work Computer mac\" width=\"750\" height=\"537\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Select-Personal-Computer.jpg 750w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Select-Personal-Computer-300x215.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Start the Scan<\/p>\n<p>Click the &#8220;<strong>Scan<\/strong>&#8221; button. Malwarebytes will automatically update its detection database and begin checking your Mac for malware.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-98733 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Click-Scan.jpg\" alt=\"Click on Scan button to start a system scan Mac\" width=\"750\" height=\"538\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Click-Scan.jpg 750w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Click-Scan-300x215.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Wait for the Scan to Finish<\/p>\n<p>Malwarebytes will scan your Mac for adware, browser hijackers, and other malicious programs. This can take a few minutes, so feel free to do something else \u2014 just check back occasionally to see the progress.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-98739 alignnone\" title=\"Wait for Malwarebytes for Mac to scan your computer\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Scanning-for-malware.jpg\" alt=\"Wait for Malwarebytes for Mac to scan for malware\" width=\"750\" height=\"536\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Scanning-for-malware.jpg 750w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Scanning-for-malware-300x214.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Quarantine the Detected Threats<\/p>\n<p>When the scan is done, you&#8217;ll see a list of everything Malwarebytes found. Click the &#8220;<strong>Quarantine<\/strong>&#8221; button to remove all the threats at once.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-98732 alignnone\" title=\"Review the malicious programs and click on Quarantine\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Click-Confirm.jpg\" alt=\"Review the malicious programs and click on Quarantine to remove malware\" width=\"750\" height=\"538\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Click-Confirm.jpg 750w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Click-Confirm-300x215.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li> <p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Restart Your Mac<\/p> <p>Malwarebytes will now remove all the malicious files it found. Some threats can only be fully removed after a reboot \u2014 if Malwarebytes asks you to restart, allow it. Once you&#8217;re logged back in, your Mac is clean.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"750\" height=\"536\" class=\"size-full wp-image-98738 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Restart.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes For Mac requesting to restart computer\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Restart.jpg 750w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Restart-300x214.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><br \/><\/p> <\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n<p>Once the scan is done, remove every threat it detected. Your Mac is now free of adware, rogue browser extensions, and other potentially harmful software.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If your current antivirus allowed a malicious program on your computer, you might want to consider purchasing the full-featured version of Malwarebytes Anti-Malware to protect against these types of threats in the future.<br \/>If you are still experiencing problems while trying to remove a malicious program from your computer, please ask for help in our <strong><a title=\"Mac Malware Removal Help &amp; Support\" href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/forums\/mac-malware-removal-help-support.183\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Mac Malware Removal Help &amp; Support<\/a><\/strong> forum.<\/p>\n\n\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"su-tabs-pane su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\" data-title=\"Malwarebytes for Android\">\n\n<h3 id=\"androidh3\" class=\"toch3\">Run a Malware Scan with Malwarebytes for Android<\/h3>\n\n<p>Malwarebytes for Android automatically detects and removes dangerous threats like malware and ransomware so you don&#8217;t have to worry about your most-used device being compromised. Aggressive detection of adware and potentially unwanted programs keeps your Android phone or tablet running smooth.<\/p>\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Download Malwarebytes for Android.<\/p>\n<p>You can download <strong>Malwarebytes for Android<\/strong> by clicking the link below.<\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-81150 mwt_product_icon_logo\" title=\"Malwarebytes Icon\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/Malwarebytes-LOGO.png\" alt=\"Malwarebytes Logo\" width=\"40\" height=\"40\"\/><\/figure><div class=\"mwt_download_box\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/play.google.com\/store\/apps\/details?id=org.malwarebytes.antimalware&#038;hl=en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">MALWAREBYTES FOR ANDROID DOWNLOAD LINK<\/a><\/strong><br \/><em>(The above link will open a new page from where you can download Malwarebytes for Android)<\/em><\/div>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Install Malwarebytes for Android on your phone.<\/p>\n<p>In the Google Play Store, tap &#8220;<strong>Install<\/strong>&#8221; to install Malwarebytes for Android on your device.<\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-106940\" title=\"Tap Install to install Malwarebytes for Android\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Google-Play-App.jpg\" alt=\"Tap Install to install Malwarebytes for Android\" width=\"292\" height=\"580\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Google-Play-App.jpg 292w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Google-Play-App-151x300.jpg 151w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 292px) 100vw, 292px\" \/><\/figure><p><\/p>\n<p>When the installation process has finished, tap &#8220;<strong>Open<\/strong>&#8221; to begin using Malwarebytes for Android. You can also open Malwarebytes by tapping on its icon in your phone menu or home screen.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-106941\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Open-App.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes for Android - Open App\" width=\"292\" height=\"578\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Open-App.jpg 292w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Open-App-152x300.jpg 152w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 292px) 100vw, 292px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the setup process<\/p>\n<p>When Malwarebytes will open, you will see the <em>Malwarebytes Setup Wizard<\/em> which will guide you through a series of permissions and other setup options.<br \/>This is the first of two screens that explain the difference between the Premium and Free versions. Swipe this screen to continue.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-106944\" title=\"Malwarebytes Setup Screen 1\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-1.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes Setup Screen 1\" width=\"292\" height=\"577\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-1.jpg 292w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-1-152x300.jpg 152w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 292px) 100vw, 292px\" \/><br \/>Tap on &#8220;<strong>Got it<\/strong>&#8221; to proceed to the next step.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-106945\" title=\"Malwarebytes Setup Screen 2\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-2.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes Setup Screen 2\" width=\"292\" height=\"580\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-2.jpg 292w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-2-151x300.jpg 151w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 292px) 100vw, 292px\" \/><br \/>Malwarebytes for Android will now ask for a set of permissions that are required to scan your device and protect it from malware. Tap on &#8220;<strong>Give permission<\/strong>&#8221; to continue.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-106946\" title=\"Malwarebytes Setup Screen 3\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-3.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes Setup Screen 3\" width=\"292\" height=\"570\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-3.jpg 292w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-3-154x300.jpg 154w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 292px) 100vw, 292px\" \/><br \/>Tap on &#8220;Allow&#8221; to permit Malwarebytes to access the files on your phone.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-106947\" title=\"Malwarebytes Setup Screen 4\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-7.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes Setup Screen 4\" width=\"292\" height=\"573\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-7.jpg 292w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-7-153x300.jpg 153w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 292px) 100vw, 292px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Update database and run a scan with Malwarebytes for Android<\/p>\n<p>You will now be prompted to update the Malwarebytes database and run a full system scan.<\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-106939\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Fix-Issues.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes fix issue\" width=\"292\" height=\"579\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Fix-Issues.jpg 292w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Fix-Issues-151x300.jpg 151w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 292px) 100vw, 292px\" \/><\/figure><p><\/p>\n<p>Click on &#8220;<strong>Update database<\/strong>&#8221; to update the Malwarebytes for Android definitions to the latest version, then click on &#8220;<strong>Run full scan<\/strong>&#8221; to perform a system scan.<\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-106948\" title=\"Update database and run Malwarebytes scan\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Update-Run-Scan.jpg\" alt=\"Update database and run Malwarebytes scan on phone\" width=\"291\" height=\"575\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Update-Run-Scan.jpg 291w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Update-Run-Scan-152x300.jpg 152w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 291px) 100vw, 291px\" \/><\/figure><p><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Wait for the Malwarebytes scan to complete.<\/p>\n<p>Malwarebytes will now start scanning your phone for adware and other malicious apps. This process can take a few minutes, so we suggest you do something else and periodically check on the status of the scan to see when it is finished.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-106943\" title=\"Malwarebytes scanning phone for malware\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Scanning-for-Malware.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes scanning Android for Vmalware\" width=\"292\" height=\"579\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Scanning-for-Malware.jpg 292w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Scanning-for-Malware-151x300.jpg 151w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 292px) 100vw, 292px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Click on &#8220;Remove Selected&#8221;.<\/p>\n<p>When the scan has been completed, you will be presented with a screen showing the malware infections that Malwarebytes for Android has detected. To remove the malicious apps that Malwarebytes has found, tap on the &#8220;<strong>Remove Selected<\/strong>&#8221; button.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-106942\" title=\"Tap on the Remove button to get rid of malware\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Removing-Malware.jpg\" alt=\"Remove malware from your phone\" width=\"760\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Removing-Malware.jpg 760w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Removing-Malware-300x237.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) 100vw, 760px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Restart your phone.<\/p>\n<p>Malwarebytes for Android will now remove all the malicious apps that it has found. To complete the malware removal process, Malwarebytes may ask you to restart your device.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n<hr \/>\n\n<p>After the scan, tap <strong>Remove Selected<\/strong> to delete all detected threats. Your Android phone is now clean \u2014 no more malicious apps, adware, or browser redirects.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If your current antivirus allowed a malicious app on your phone, you may want to consider purchasing the full-featured version of Malwarebytes to protect against these types of threats in the future.<br \/>If you are still having problems with your phone after completing these instructions, then please follow one of the steps:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Restore your phone to factory settings by going to <em>Settings &gt; General management &gt; Reset &gt; Factory data reset.<\/em><\/li><li>Ask for help in our <strong><a title=\"Mobile Malware Removal Help &amp; Support\" href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/forums\/mobile-malware-removal-help-support.165\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Mobile Malware Removal Help &amp; Support<\/a><\/strong> forum.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<h3>Stay Protected: Block Ads and Malicious Sites<\/h3>\n\n<p>Now that your device is clean, keep it that way. Most infections start with a malicious ad or a fake download button \u2014 so blocking them at the source is your best defense.<\/p>\n\n<p>We recommend <a href=\"https:\/\/adguard.com\/?aid=29616\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"sponsored nofollow noopener noreferrer\"><strong>AdGuard<\/strong><\/a>, which blocks malicious ads, phishing pages, and dangerous redirects before they can reach you.<\/p>\n\n<p>\ud83d\udc49 <a href=\"https:\/\/adguard.com\/?aid=29616\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"sponsored nofollow noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Download AdGuard and browse safely<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n<div id=\"mwtad4252109305\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_381388-ad_309691-placement_381390\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"3191649120\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How to Identify a Real Bank of America Fraud Alert<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To protect yourself, know how <strong>real<\/strong> fraud alerts differ from fake ones.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th>Feature<\/th><th>Real Bank of America Alert<\/th><th>Scam Call\/Voicemail<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>Delivery method<\/strong><\/td><td>Via Bank of America app, text, or secure email<\/td><td>Random phone call or voicemail<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Callback number<\/strong><\/td><td>Official BofA number on website or card<\/td><td>Unknown number or spoofed local number<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Information requested<\/strong><\/td><td>May ask you to verify a transaction, but not for passwords or codes<\/td><td>Requests login details, 2FA codes, or card info<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Tone<\/strong><\/td><td>Professional but calm<\/td><td>Urgent, threatening, or insistent<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Response time<\/strong><\/td><td>Allows you to confirm in app<\/td><td>Pressures you to act \u201cimmediately\u201d<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Bank of America fraud detection systems are automated and always direct you to verify through secure channels, never through random calls.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"mwtad2231763860\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_381392-ad_309691-placement_381395\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"2944237110\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>The Bottom Line<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The <strong>Bank of America Target Purchase Phone Call Scam<\/strong> is one of the most convincing frauds circulating today.<br \/>It uses a combination of believable details, spoofed caller IDs, and psychological pressure to make victims act fast \u2014 often before verifying the truth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here\u2019s what to remember:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Bank of America will never call you<\/strong> out of the blue to confirm transactions or ask for codes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Never share your verification codes or passwords<\/strong> with anyone claiming to be from the bank.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Always verify using official numbers<\/strong> found on your card or in the bank\u2019s mobile app.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you ever receive a voicemail or call about a \u201cdeclined Target.com purchase\u201d \u2014 hang up, don\u2019t engage, and contact Bank of America directly.<br \/>Awareness is your best defense. The more people understand how this scam operates, the fewer victims scammers will find.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Frequently Asked Questions About the Bank of America Target Purchase Phone Call Scam<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What is the Bank of America Target Purchase Phone Call Scam?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Bank of America Target Purchase Phone Call Scam is a <strong>voice phishing (vishing) fraud<\/strong> in which scammers impersonate the bank\u2019s fraud department. Victims receive an automated call or voicemail claiming that a <strong>purchase for around $319.55 at Target.com was declined<\/strong>. The message instructs them to \u201cpress 1\u201d or \u201ccall the fraud department immediately\u201d to verify the transaction. Once the victim responds, scammers posing as Bank of America representatives collect personal data, access online banking accounts, or trick victims into transferring funds to \u201csafe\u201d accounts. The scam has no connection to the real Bank of America or Target \u2014 it\u2019s a deceptive ploy to steal your money and identity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How can I tell if a Bank of America call is fake?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Fake Bank of America calls almost always include <strong>urgent language and immediate instructions<\/strong> to verify a transaction or confirm your identity. Common signs include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Automated messages<\/strong> mentioning a specific retailer like Target.com or Amazon.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Requests to <strong>press a number<\/strong> or <strong>call back a different phone number.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Spoofed caller IDs<\/strong> showing \u201cBank of America\u201d or a local area code.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Requests for sensitive data<\/strong> like passwords, one-time passcodes, or full card numbers.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Emotional pressure<\/strong> \u2014 the scammer insists your account will be frozen if you don\u2019t act quickly.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Real Bank of America calls never request passwords, security codes, or remote access. If in doubt, hang up and call the official number on the back of your card.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What happens if I press 1 or call the number back?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you press 1 or call the number provided in the voicemail, you\u2019ll be connected to a <strong>fake Bank of America agent<\/strong> trained to sound professional. They\u2019ll ask for your name, ZIP code, and last four digits of your card to \u201cverify your identity.\u201d Then they\u2019ll claim to see suspicious Target.com transactions and will ask for:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Your <strong>online banking credentials,<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Verification codes<\/strong> sent to your phone, or<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>To <strong>move your funds<\/strong> to a \u201ctemporary safe account.\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In more advanced scams, they\u2019ll ask you to install a remote access app such as AnyDesk or TeamViewer, giving them direct control over your device. Once they have access or your codes, they can empty your bank account in minutes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Does Bank of America ever call customers about suspicious purchases?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes, Bank of America does contact customers about potential fraud \u2014 but only through <strong>secure, verifiable channels.<\/strong><br \/>Legitimate fraud alerts:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Come through the <strong>Bank of America app<\/strong>, secure text messages, or verified emails.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Always allow you to <strong>confirm transactions safely<\/strong> without providing personal details.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Never include unknown callback numbers or links.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you receive a call that seems suspicious, hang up and call <strong>1-800-432-1000<\/strong> (the official number on the back of your card). That\u2019s the only way to confirm if a fraud alert is real.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Why do scammers mention Target.com in these calls?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Target.com is frequently used in these scam messages because it sounds <strong>plausible and familiar.<\/strong> Most Americans have shopped at Target or online retailers like it, so hearing a transaction \u201cdeclined at Target.com for $319.55\u201d doesn\u2019t raise immediate suspicion. The amount is chosen carefully \u2014 large enough to alarm you but small enough to seem believable. The scammers use this realism to make their fake voicemail sound like a legitimate fraud alert from Bank of America\u2019s system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What should I do if I gave my information to a fake Bank of America caller?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you shared any information with a scammer, take these steps immediately:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Call Bank of America directly<\/strong> at <strong>1-800-432-1000<\/strong> to report the incident.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Freeze or lock your cards<\/strong> to prevent unauthorized charges.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Change your online banking password<\/strong> and enable two-factor authentication.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Check your transaction history<\/strong> for unknown transfers or Zelle payments.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Uninstall any remote access apps<\/strong> the scammer asked you to install.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Report the scam<\/strong> to the <strong>FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov<\/strong> and the <strong>FBI IC3<\/strong> at <strong>ic3.gov.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Acting quickly can help Bank of America block transactions and limit damage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Can scammers really make the caller ID show \u201cBank of America\u201d?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes. This tactic is known as <strong>caller ID spoofing.<\/strong> Scammers use VoIP (internet-based calling) tools to falsify the caller ID that appears on your phone. This means your display might show \u201cBank of America\u201d or a local area code even though the call is coming from overseas. Caller ID alone can never verify legitimacy. Always confirm through official phone numbers listed on <strong>bankofamerica.com<\/strong> or on your card.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What if I received a voicemail about a declined Target.com purchase but didn\u2019t respond?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you ignored or deleted the voicemail, you\u2019re safe \u2014 simply do nothing further. The voicemail is part of a mass robocall campaign that targets thousands of numbers daily. No real purchase was made, and your Bank of America account isn\u2019t affected. However, you can help others by <strong>reporting the number<\/strong> used in the call to the <strong>FTC<\/strong> or by posting it on scam-reporting websites such as <strong>800notes.com<\/strong> or <strong>WhoCallsMe.com<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What are the risks if scammers accessed my account remotely?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you installed a remote access app at a scammer\u2019s request, they may have been able to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>View your screen, emails, and files,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Capture passwords or authentication codes,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Transfer money using your online banking app,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Install malware or keyloggers.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Disconnect your device from the internet, uninstall the remote app, and perform a full malware scan. Then contact Bank of America to freeze your account and reset credentials. It\u2019s also wise to have your phone or computer inspected by a trusted professional for any remaining malicious software.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Is there a way to verify real Bank of America fraud alerts?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes. You can verify legitimate alerts in several ways:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Log into the <strong>Bank of America mobile app<\/strong> or online banking directly \u2014 real alerts appear in your notifications.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Check <strong>emails<\/strong> from official <code>@bankofamerica.com<\/code> domains only.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Call the number on your <strong>physical debit or credit card<\/strong> to speak to a verified representative.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Set up <strong>custom alerts<\/strong> within your account so you always know when a real purchase occurs.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If a call, email, or text doesn\u2019t match these official sources, it\u2019s almost certainly a scam.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>It starts with a voicemail that sounds urgent &#8211; maybe you even missed a call. \u201cBank of America \u2013 a purchase was declined for $319.55 at Target.com. Press 1 if you recognize this purchase, or &#8230; <\/p>\n<p class=\"read-more-container\"><a title=\"Bank of America Target Purchase Phone Call Scam Exposed\" class=\"read-more button\" href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/bank-of-america-target-purchase-phone-call-scam-exposed\/#more-365970\" aria-label=\"Read more about Bank of America Target Purchase Phone Call Scam Exposed\">Read more<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":50,"featured_media":365971,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"ai_generated_summary":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[49],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-365970","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-scam-reports","masonry-post","generate-columns","tablet-grid-50","mobile-grid-100","grid-parent","grid-50","resize-featured-image"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/365970","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/50"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=365970"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/365970\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/365971"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=365970"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=365970"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=365970"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}