Scam Library
Bank Impersonation Scams
Scammers pose as bank staff to trick you into revealing card details, passwords or OTPs, or moving money to a 'safe account'.
How it works
- You get a call or SMS about 'suspicious activity'.
- The caller knows some details about you.
- They ask you to confirm an OTP or move funds.
Warning signs
- Requests for OTP, PIN or full card number
- Instructions to move money to a 'safe' account
- Links in SMS asking you to log in
- Spoofed caller ID
Scenario
Illustrative example: A caller claiming to be from a bank's fraud department says your card was cloned and asks you to read out the code just sent to your phone.
This scenario is fictional and for illustration only.
How to protect yourself
- Hang up and call the number on the back of your card
- Banks never ask for your OTP
- Don't click login links in messages
If you've been affected
- Stop all contact with the scammer and do not send any more money or information.
- Contact your bank or mobile money provider immediately to block or reverse transactions where possible.
- Change passwords and PINs for any accounts that may be exposed.
- Keep screenshots, numbers, links and receipts as evidence.
- Report the incident to the Botswana Police Service, and report the number in the ScamProtect app to warn others.