When it comes to protecting your finances, knowing what not to do can sometimes be just as important as knowing what to do. Modern scammers will try to trick you into revealing personal information or making transactions by using complex or very convincing schemes. That’s why it helps to know what a legitimate bank will absolutely never ask of you. When you understand the red flags, you can spot a scam more quickly and protect yourself before any damage is done.
Before you click, share, or send anything, here are some critical things your bank will never tell you to do and why these should immediately raise alarm bells.
Share Your One-Time Password (OTP) or PIN with Anyone
No legitimate bank will ever ask you to give your OTP, PIN, or CVV to anyone. Not in person, not over the phone, and definitely not through text or email. These are personal security credentials meant for you alone. If someone claims they’re from the bank and needs these codes to “verify” or “unlock” your account, it’s a scam.
The good news is that you’re not alone in your efforts to keep these important details private. Maya, for one, has measures in place to ensure that you can continue to participate in secure online credit card transactions and use your funds with confidence. The #1 digital bank in the Philippines makes use of multi-factor authentication to establish a user’s identity. Maya also often sends reminders to inform users about the latest strategies scammers use to access PINs, OTPs, and CVVs. Staying aware of these trends and making it a point to never share specific details means you’re sure that no one can move your money without your consent.
Click a Link Sent through Text or Email to “Verify” Your Account
Banks will never send you random links asking you to log in or update your information. If you do receive messages or emails from your supposed bank or a representative asking you to click links and log in, they’re phishing tactics. These links often lead to fake websites that look almost identical to the real thing. If you unknowingly enter your credentials there, scammers can steal your login details and drain your account.
Maya helps prevent these risks by allowing you to log in directly through a trusted platform rather than a link. So, why click on a link when you can update your details on the Maya app? If you want to report a lost Maya credit card, order a replacement Landers Cashback Everywhere Credit Card, or set limits to your credit card spending, you can do so directly on the Maya app, too. For your safety, always access your bank through its official mobile app or website.
Transfer Money to a “Safe” or “Holding” Account
Scammers may try to convince you that your bank account has been hacked and that you need to transfer your money to a “secure” or “temporary” account. No matter how convincing they sound, this is a scam. Real banks don’t ask you to move your money as a way to “protect” it.
If someone pressures you to make an urgent transfer, hang up and contact your bank directly using official numbers. It also helps to know about the world-class security features protecting you and your bank. Maya, for instance, uses real-time fraud monitoring systems to detect unusual activity and will freeze suspicious transactions. With these security measures in place to secure your funds and details, Maya will not ask you to transfer your money elsewhere.
Download Remote Access Apps or Software
You should never be asked by your bank to install apps like AnyDesk, TeamViewer, or other remote desktop tools. These are often used by scammers pretending to be from “tech support” or “fraud departments.” Once installed, they can view your screen and take control of your device, giving them access to everything, including your bank app.
Maya encourages safe app use by securing your transactions within its official mobile platform. It never requires remote access to your device. Any request to download third-party software should be treated as an immediate red flag.
Pay a Fee to Fix or Unlock Your Account
If someone says your account is frozen and you need to pay a fee to unlock it, walk away. Banks don’t operate this way. Fixing an account issue is part of the service you’re entitled to, so there’s no reason you should pay extra just to access your own money.
Do you have a Maya credit card? You can freeze, unfreeze, or block your Landers Cashback Everywhere Credit Card or Maya Black Credit Card on the Maya app whenever you want and at no added cost. If something goes wrong, you can reach out to Maya’s verified support team through proper channels, without ever being charged a “recovery” fee.
Stay Silent about the Transaction to Avoid “Complications”
Scammers may try to isolate you by telling you not to inform anyone else about suspicious interactions or transactions. They may claim it’s a sensitive matter, under investigation, or that you might get in trouble if you speak up. This is a clear manipulation tactic.
Transparency is a practice embraced by the most secure credit card providers in the Philippines. Maya, for example, urges users to report suspicious activity immediately so that accounts can be protected or locked down as needed. You can reach out to Maya representatives using the app at any time.
Act Immediately Under Pressure
Scammers use urgency to short-circuit your judgment. They’ll say your account will be closed, you’ll be arrested, or your funds will be lost forever if you don’t act now. Real banks, on the other hand, provide time and proper procedures for resolving issues.
Maya’s security measures include real-time alerts and app-based controls, giving you space to review and respond to activity. If you’re being pushed to rush into a decision, stop and reassess because it’s likely a scam.
Scammers are constantly evolving, but the signs of fraud stay largely the same. Knowing what your bank will never ask you to do can help you stay one step ahead. With tools like Maya’s secure in-app controls, EMV cards, dynamic CVVs, and real-time alerts, you have the power to transact confidently. The more aware you are of scam tactics, the safer your money will be.
