{"id":371202,"date":"2025-12-24T05:30:56","date_gmt":"2025-12-24T05:30:56","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/?p=371202"},"modified":"2025-12-24T05:30:57","modified_gmt":"2025-12-24T05:30:57","slug":"beware-the-fake-bank-of-america-gamestop-charge-scam-text","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/beware-the-fake-bank-of-america-gamestop-charge-scam-text\/","title":{"rendered":"Beware the FAKE Bank of America &#8220;GameStop Charge&#8221; Scam Text"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The voicemail sounds calm, almost routine.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad70220277\" 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\">It says there was a charge at GameStop on your Bank of America card, and it needs your attention. A text message follows from the same number, 18009010403, repeating the warning like a helpful reminder you should not ignore.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For a split second, your brain does what it always does in moments like this. It pictures the damage first, then it searches for the fastest way to stop it.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad2631840043\" 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\">That is exactly what this scam is built to trigger.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Because in many cases, the \u201ccharge\u201d is not the real story. The real story is what happens next, when a fake fraud alert pulls you into a phone call, a reply, or a verification step that quietly hands scammers the keys to your money.<\/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\/12\/scam-4-1-1024x860.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-371203\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/scam-4-1-1024x860.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/scam-4-1-300x252.jpg 300w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/scam-4-1-1536x1290.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/scam-4-1-2048x1720.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"mwtad4262826762\" 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\">Scam Overview<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Bank of America and GameStop charge scam texts are impersonation messages designed to look like real fraud alerts. They usually arrive as one or more SMS messages, sometimes paired with a voicemail, claiming your Bank of America card was used at GameStop, often for a specific dollar amount. The scam is meant to create urgency, get you to engage, and then push you toward actions that benefit the scammers.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad1682310465\" 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\">A user report describes receiving a voicemail and text messages from 18009010403 about a charge at GameStop on a Bank of America card. That pattern is consistent with bank impersonation campaigns where scammers use familiar merchant names and \u201cfraud department\u201d language to lure victims into a live conversation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why these \u201cBank of America charge at GameStop\u201d alerts feel so believable<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Scammers have learned what makes people react.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They do not send messages that sound like obvious nonsense. They send messages that feel like something a bank would actually say when it detects unusual activity. That includes:<\/p><div id=\"mwtad1699655824\" 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<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A recognizable bank brand, such as Bank of America<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A recognizable merchant, such as GameStop<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A simple fraud scenario that anyone can understand<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A sense of time pressure, often implied rather than shouted<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A clear next step, usually \u201ccall this number\u201d or \u201creply YES\/NO\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The merchant matters more than people realize.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">GameStop is widely known, easy to picture, and easy to believe as a fraud target. It creates a simple mental image: someone used a card in a store, or online, and the bank caught it. That story is clean, familiar, and plausible enough to pull you in.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The phone number is the real payload<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In many versions of this scam, the scammer\u2019s phone number is the most important piece of the message.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad754200429\" 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<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is not always about getting you to click a link. It is about getting you to call.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once you call, you are no longer evaluating a text message. You are dealing with a confident human voice that can:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Interrupt your thinking<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Add urgency at the right moments<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reassure you when you hesitate<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Adapt the story based on your answers<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Walk you step-by-step into a trap<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Bank of America warns about exactly this kind of social engineering, including scammers who pretend to \u201chelp stop fraud\u201d by asking you to share a one-time code or send money through Zelle. <\/p><div id=\"mwtad1436540089\" 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\">What scammers want from you<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The most common goals of Bank of America fraud alert scams fall into a few categories.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>They want your one-time passcodes.<\/strong><br \/>This is one of the most dangerous outcomes because it can give them instant account access. Bank of America specifically warns that scammers may ask you to share a one-time code to \u201cresolve fraud.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>They want your online banking access.<\/strong><br \/>Some victims are pushed to \u201cconfirm\u201d credentials or are tricked into logging in on a fake page. Others are talked into revealing details over the phone.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad1072646662\" 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<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>They want to move your money.<\/strong><br \/>A common twist is a fake \u201csecure transfer\u201d where the scammer convinces you to send money to yourself or to a \u201csafe account\u201d through Zelle or other instant transfer methods. Bank of America notes they will never contact you to ask you to send money using Zelle, including sending money to yourself, as a fraud solution. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>They want your identity details.<\/strong><br \/>Even if you do not bank with Bank of America, scammers can harvest your name, phone number, email, and address, then use it for more targeted fraud later.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u201cBut I don\u2019t even bank with Bank of America\u201d<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is one of the most confusing parts of the scam, and it is also one of the reasons it works.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad4291775691\" 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\">Scammers send these alerts in bulk. They do not need to know who banks where. They only need a small percentage of recipients to respond.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you do bank with Bank of America, the alert feels personal. If you do not, many people still call just to \u201cclear it up,\u201d because it feels safer than ignoring it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That reaction is completely normal. It is also exactly what scammers are counting on.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad299854892\" 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<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why you might get a voicemail plus a text<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A voicemail makes it feel more official.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Text messages are common, but voicemails create a different kind of pressure. A voicemail feels like a direct outreach, like a fraud agent tried to reach you and will keep trying until you respond.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In reality, it is simply another channel to push you to engage.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad2540652702\" 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<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The scam flow often looks like this:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>You miss a call, or receive a voicemail<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The voicemail claims a suspicious charge and instructs you to act<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A text arrives from the same number to reinforce the urgency<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If you respond, the scammer now knows your number is active<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How scammers make the messages look \u201cbank-like\u201d<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Scammers borrow the tone and structure of real alerts:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Short sentences<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Clear merchant names<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Minimal details<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A simple yes\/no decision<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A number that appears \u201csupport-like\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"mwtad4255543606\" 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\">Some scams even attempt to insert themselves into existing message threads, making it look like the alert is part of your bank\u2019s usual SMS history. This is one reason the safest habit is to verify using official channels you initiate, not the number provided in the message.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Bank of America says to do with suspicious texts<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If a suspicious text uses Bank of America\u2019s name, Bank of America instructs people to forward suspicious messages to their abuse reporting email address and to forward suspicious texts to 7726 (SPAM) to report to your mobile carrier. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That guidance is valuable because it gives you a safe action that does not involve engaging with the scammer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The most common \u201cGameStop charge\u201d scam text themes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Even if the wording varies, most versions follow the same emotional script:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\u201cDid you authorize this?\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cWe detected unusual activity.\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cReply YES to confirm, NO to deny.\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cCall immediately to stop the charge.\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cYour card will be locked if you do not respond.\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Sometimes the message includes a dollar amount. Sometimes it does not. The goal is always the same: push you to engage before you verify.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Red flags that separate a real alert from a scam attempt<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A real bank might text you about unusual activity. But the danger is not the concept of a fraud alert, it is the way scammers twist it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Be cautious when:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The message pressures you to call a number provided in the text<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The message asks for one-time codes, PINs, or login details<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The person on the phone insists you must act right now<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The \u201csolution\u201d involves sending money, even to yourself<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You feel rushed, confused, or kept on the line while you do things<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Bank of America explicitly warns that scammers may ask you to share a code or send money, including through Zelle, as part of a fake fraud resolution process. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why this scam can be expensive, fast<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you engage and the scam moves into one-time code capture, things can happen quickly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A scammer does not always need your password. In many account takeover patterns, the scammer triggers a reset or enrollment flow and then uses the one-time code you read back to them. That is why one-time codes are so valuable, and why banks repeatedly warn not to share them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once access is gained, the money movement can be immediate through instant transfer systems, and reversals can be difficult.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A quick reality check about phone numbers like 18009010403<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Seeing an \u201c800\u201d style number can lower your guard. It feels official.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But phone numbers can be spoofed. Caller ID can be faked. Text sender numbers can be manipulated in ways that make them look legitimate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">So the safest policy is simple: never trust the number that contacted you. Trust only the number you look up yourself from an official source, or the number printed on the back of your card or bank statement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Bank of America\u2019s guidance for people who responded to suspicious messages is to call the number on the back of your card or statement. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"mwtad2226414004\" 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\">How the Scam Works<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Below is the most common step-by-step pattern for Bank of America and GameStop charge scam texts, including versions that begin with a voicemail from a number like 18009010403. The steps are written in a realistic sequence, but scammers may mix or skip steps depending on how you respond.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1) The alert arrives with a familiar merchant and a clear threat<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You receive a voicemail, a text, or both.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It claims a charge at GameStop on your Bank of America card. The details may be minimal, but the message usually implies urgency. It is framed as a fraud prevention alert, not a sales pitch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is the hook. It activates fear, and it creates a problem that feels time-sensitive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2) You are given a simple action, call back or reply<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The message typically offers a fast way to fix it:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Call a number to \u201cverify\u201d or \u201cstop the charge\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reply YES\/NO to confirm the transaction<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is the fork in the road the scammers care about.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you reply, they learn your number is active and responsive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you call, you enter the high-risk stage where a scammer can guide you in real time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3) The \u201cbank representative\u201d answers, and builds trust quickly<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">On the phone, the scammer sounds like a fraud department agent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They may:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Confirm the merchant name and amount<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Claim the transaction is pending and can still be stopped<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Use banking language to sound credible<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then they begin \u201cverification.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The first questions often feel harmless: your name, phone number, maybe the last four digits of a card. This is compliance-building. Each small answer makes the next request easier.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4) They escalate the story from one charge to a broader compromise<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once you are engaged, many scammers expand the narrative:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\u201cWe also see attempted transfers.\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cWe see an added payee.\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cWe see a Zelle enrollment.\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cWe see sign-ins from another state.\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This creates a bigger emergency, which makes drastic actions feel reasonable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Bank of America specifically warns about scams where a caller claims fraud and then asks you to share a code or send money through Zelle as the fix.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5) They attempt to capture a one-time code<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is one of the most common turning points.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The scammer says something like:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\u201cI\u2019m sending a code to verify you.\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cRead the code to confirm we can block the fraud.\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cThis code allows me to secure your account.\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In reality, that code may be:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A login verification code<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A password reset code<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A code to enroll the scammer\u2019s device<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A code to authorize a transfer setup<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Bank of America warns about scammers asking you to share a one-time code over the phone. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">6) They introduce the \u201csecure transfer\u201d trick<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If they cannot get a code, or after they get it, many scammers pivot to money movement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They may claim:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Your account is \u201cunsafe\u201d and needs funds moved temporarily<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The charge cannot be stopped unless the account is \u201cverified\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A \u201csafe account\u201d will protect your money during the investigation<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then they instruct you to send money through Zelle or another instant method, sometimes framed as sending money to yourself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Bank of America warns that they will never contact you and ask you to send money using Zelle, including sending money to yourself, as a fraud solution.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">7) They use pressure to keep you from verifying independently<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Throughout the call, scammers try to prevent you from pausing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Common pressure lines include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\u201cDo not hang up, or the charge will post.\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cIf you call the bank back, it will delay the case.\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cYou have a short window before funds are released.\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is manipulation, not process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A legitimate bank will not punish you for hanging up and calling back through the official number on your card.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">8) If you comply, they move fast, then disappear<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If the scammer succeeds, the final stage happens quickly:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Money is moved out<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Access is gained<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>New payees are added<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Your credentials are changed<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You are told to wait, or to expect a call back<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then the contact fades. Or worse, it continues in a new form, with follow-up calls from \u201cescalation\u201d or \u201crecovery\u201d teams.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If gift cards ever enter the conversation, that is a strong scam signal. The FTC\u2019s guidance on gift card scams emphasizes reporting quickly to the gift card company and to the FTC, because speed can affect recovery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"mwtad442746878\" 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\">What To Do If You Have Fallen Victim to This Scam<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you replied, called back, shared any information, read a code, clicked a link, or sent money, the goal now is containment. The steps below are practical, and you can do them calmly, one by one.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Stop engaging with the number and preserve evidence<\/strong><br \/>Do not reply again. Do not call back. Block the number. Take screenshots of the texts and save the voicemail if possible. Write down the time, the phone number, and what was said.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Contact your bank using a trusted number you choose<\/strong><br \/>If you bank with Bank of America, call the number on the back of your card or your statement. If you do not, call the bank you actually use and explain you may have interacted with a bank impersonation scam.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you gave any information, tell them exactly what you shared and ask for the fraud department.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Bank of America\u2019s guidance for people who responded to suspicious texts or calls is to call the number on the back of your card or bank statement. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"3\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>If you shared a one-time code, assume account takeover risk<\/strong><br \/>One-time codes are not harmless.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Immediately change your online banking password and your email password, because email is often the path to resets. Turn on two-factor authentication where possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If your bank supports it, ask them to add additional verification to your profile.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"4\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Review your account for changes, not just charges<\/strong><br \/>Look for:<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>New payees<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>New linked accounts<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>New phone numbers or emails on your profile<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>New transfer recipients<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Any new Zelle enrollment activity<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Scammers often set up future access, even if they do not move money right away.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"5\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>If you sent money, act immediately, and ask about recall options<\/strong><br \/>If you sent funds through an instant transfer, call your bank right away. Ask whether the transfer can be canceled or recalled, and file a fraud report.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you were pushed into gift card purchases, report it to the gift card company immediately and file a report with the FTC. The FTC recommends reporting gift card scams quickly, and notes some companies may help with recovery. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"6\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Scan your devices if you clicked links or installed anything<\/strong><br \/>If the scam included any link, or if you were asked to install apps or profiles, scan your devices.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Use reputable tools:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Malwarebytes<\/strong> to check for malware and unwanted programs<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>AdGuard<\/strong> to reduce exposure to malicious ads and scam pages that often lead to phishing and fake alerts<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"7\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Report the scam text properly<\/strong><br \/>Forward suspicious texts that use Bank of America\u2019s name to their abuse reporting email address. Bank of America also recommends forwarding scam texts to 7726 (SPAM) to report to your mobile carrier.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Reporting helps carriers and banks map campaigns and block infrastructure faster.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"8\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Watch for follow-up attempts and \u201crecovery\u201d scams<\/strong><br \/>After you engage once, scammers may try again using new stories. They may pretend to be:<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A bank supervisor<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A \u201cZelle support team\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A fraud investigator<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A service that can recover your money<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Be especially wary of anyone who contacts you first and asks for payment to recover losses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"9\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>If you shared personal identity details, consider protective steps<\/strong><br \/>If you provided sensitive personal data, consider placing fraud alerts or credit freezes with relevant credit bureaus in your country, depending on what applies to your situation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Give yourself a rule for the future, and stick to it<\/strong><br \/>When a message triggers panic, slow the moment down.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Use a simple habit: do not use the contact details provided in the message. Use a number you already trust, like the number on your card, or one you look up yourself.<\/p>\n\n\n<div id=\"mwtad3102348680\" 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('https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/get\/malwarebytes-free');\">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=\"mwtad1367499316\" 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\">The Bottom Line<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Bank of America and GameStop charge scam text is a modern version of a classic con: a believable fraud alert that pushes you into a fast reaction. In the user report, the scam included a voicemail and texts from 18009010403 about a GameStop charge on a Bank of America card, a pattern that fits bank impersonation and fraud alert social engineering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The safest response is to avoid calling numbers provided in unexpected texts or voicemails. Instead, verify using official channels you initiate, like the number on the back of your card or bank statement. If you already engaged, focus on containment: contact your real bank, change passwords, review for account changes, and report the scam through official reporting paths, including Bank of America\u2019s abuse reporting and your carrier\u2019s 7726 spam reporting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"mwtad2422981876\" 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\">FAQ<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What are \u201cBank of America &amp; GameStop charge\u201d scam texts?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They are fake fraud alerts designed to look like Bank of America security messages. They claim your card was used at GameStop and try to push you into calling a phone number or replying to the text. The real goal is to steal one-time codes, online banking access, or money.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Is 18009010403 a real Bank of America number?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Do not assume any number in a text or voicemail is legitimate. Scammers can spoof caller ID and can send texts that appear to come from convincing numbers. The safe move is to call Bank of America using the number on the back of your card, or a number you find on the official Bank of America website, not the number that contacted you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why do scammers use GameStop in these alerts?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">GameStop is recognizable and feels plausible as a fraud merchant. Scammers pick well-known store names because they trigger a quick emotional reaction and make the story easy to believe without needing extra details.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What happens if I reply YES or NO to the text?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Replying confirms your phone number is active and responsive. That can lead to more scam attempts. In some versions, replying also triggers a follow-up call from a fake \u201cfraud department\u201d agent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What happens if I call the number in the message?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You may reach a fake bank representative who sounds professional and urgent. They will try to \u201cverify\u201d you, then pressure you to share sensitive information, especially one-time passcodes. Some will push you to send money through instant transfer methods as a supposed fraud fix.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Will a real bank ever ask me to read back a one-time code?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No. A one-time code is meant to confirm it is really you. If you read it to someone else, you can be handing them the keys to your account. Treat any request for a code as a major red flag.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why do scammers ask people to send money using Zelle or similar services?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Because those transfers can be fast and difficult to reverse. Scammers may claim you must move money to a \u201csafe account,\u201d or even \u201csend money to yourself,\u201d but the instructions are designed to route funds to the scammer or a mule account.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">I do not bank with Bank of America. Why did I get this message?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Scammers send these alerts in bulk. They do not need accurate bank data. They only need a small percentage of people to respond out of caution, confusion, or urgency.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What should I do if I received the alert but did not respond?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Do not call the number and do not reply. If you want peace of mind, check your real bank account and card statements directly, or call your bank using the number on the back of your card.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What if I replied or called, but I did not give them anything?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your risk is lower, but expect more scam attempts. Block the number, watch for follow-up messages, and be cautious of calls claiming to be \u201cescalated support\u201d or \u201cfraud recovery.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What if I shared my bank login, card details, or a one-time code?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Treat it as urgent:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Contact your bank immediately using a trusted number<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Change your online banking password<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Change your email password (email is often used for resets)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ask the bank to review recent activity and add extra security controls<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What if I sent money or bought gift cards?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Call your bank immediately and ask if the transfer can be stopped or recalled. If gift cards were involved, contact the gift card issuer right away and keep receipts and card details. Report the incident quickly, speed matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Should I scan my device after interacting with this scam?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you clicked links, installed anything, or were guided through steps on a computer, yes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Use Malwarebytes to scan for malware and unwanted programs<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Use AdGuard to help block malicious ads and scam pages that often lead to phishing<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How do I report these scam texts?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Report the text as spam in your messaging app<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Forward the message to 7726 (SPAM) to report it to your mobile carrier, if supported in your region<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The voicemail sounds calm, almost routine. It says there was a charge at GameStop on your Bank of America card, and it needs your attention. A text message follows from the same number, 18009010403, repeating &#8230; <\/p>\n<p class=\"read-more-container\"><a title=\"Beware the FAKE Bank of America &#8220;GameStop Charge&#8221; Scam Text\" class=\"read-more button\" href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/beware-the-fake-bank-of-america-gamestop-charge-scam-text\/#more-371202\" aria-label=\"Read more about Beware the FAKE Bank of America &#8220;GameStop Charge&#8221; Scam Text\">Read more<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":50,"featured_media":371203,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[49],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-371202","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\/371202","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=371202"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/371202\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/371203"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=371202"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=371202"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=371202"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}