What Cybercriminals Want and What We'll Never Ask For

What cybercriminals are after

Fraudsters rarely start by asking for money directly. Instead, they try to gain access.

Typical requests include:

1. Your login credentials

This is their number one priority. They want:

• Your online banking username/password
• One-time security codes
• Credit card details
• Your Social Security number

Why? Because once they can log in as you, everything looks legitimate.

Real-life example. You get a text that says:

“Unusual activity detected. Reply with the verification code we just sent to secure your account.”

That code? It was triggered by them trying to log in.

2. Your action—fast

Fraudsters create urgency because urgency shuts down critical thinking.

Common tactics:

• “Your account will be frozen TODAY.”
• “This charge must be confirmed immediately.”
• “Your payment failed—update now.”

If it feels rushed or threatening, that’s a red flag. And you can be assured it’s not us.

3. Your emotions—played on

Fraudsters manipulate people. By tapping into strong emotions and tugging at your heart, they lower your guard and increase the chances you’ll act without questioning.

Approaches may include:

• “Your child has been in an accident—send money now.”
• “I care about you, but I’m in trouble and need financial help.
• “Congratulations! You’ve won—just pay a small fee to claim your prize.”

If a message triggers an immediate emotional reaction—fear, panic, vulnerability or even excitement—pause. That flood of emotion is often the first sign something isn’t right.

4. Your personal information

When they’re trying to build their next scam, even the smallest of details matter:

• Birthdate
• Address
• Employer
• Family names
• Phone number

Each piece helps cybercriminals impersonate you more convincingly later.

5. Your voice or face

Yes, really. One of the fastest-growing threats right now is AI-generated deepfake scams.

Fraudsters can:

• Clone a voice from a short online video
• Generate a realistic phone call that sounds like a family member
• Create fake video messages that appear authentic
  
  Example happening today:
  Someone receives a frantic call from a “relative” saying they need money right away—and the voice sounds spot-on.

The technology is getting better. But the scam still relies on the same thing: panic and quick action.

What our Associated Bank team will never ask you for

This is one of the most important things you can remember. A legitimate bank will never contact you and ask you to provide:

❌ Your full password

❌ One-time security codes

❌ PIN numbers

❌ Online banking login details

❌ Requests to move money “to keep it safe”

Let’s say that last one again: No bank will ever ask you to transfer money to protect it from fraud. That is always a scam.

The most common fraud tactics we’re seeing right now

Here’s what’s trending with scammers—and what to watch for.

Phishing Messages That Look Extremely Real

Emails and texts:

• Use your name
• Mimic real branding perfectly
• Include realistic links

Fraudsters are increasingly sending texts that look like official alerts from a real fraud team, making it harder than ever to spot scams.

Stay-safe tip: Always go to your bank’s website directly instead of clicking links.

“Spoofed” Phone Calls

Scammers can make calls appear to come from your bank’s phone number.

Stay-safe tip: Caller ID can be faked. Trust is earned through verification, not appearances.

Fake Payment Requests

You might see a text message like:

• “You owe a toll fee”
• “Package delivery failed”
• “Subscription renewal required”

These are designed to get you to enter card or login information on the spot.

Stay-safe tip: If you feel pressured, do not provide payment information. Look into it and make sure it’s legit.

AI-Driven Impersonation

We’re seeing increases in cybercriminals using AI for:

• Fake employer payment requests
• “Boss” scams asking employees to send money
• Voice clones posing as family members

Stay-safe tip: Pause and verify using a second method.

How to stay in control and stay ahead of the scammers

Fraud prevention doesn’t require technical genius—just a few consistent habits.

• Slow down. Scammers win when we react quickly and emotionally.
• Verify independently. If you get a suspicious message:
  • Don’t reply
  • Don’t click links
  • Contact your bank directly using official channels
• Protect your codes like cash. If someone asks for a verification code, treat it like handing them your wallet. Because in many cases, that’s exactly what it is.
• Use alerts. Account notifications help you spot suspicious activity early—often before fraud happens.

If ever in doubt, reach out

At Associated Bank, we’re about more than banking—we’re about having your back. And we’re here to help keep you safe from cyber scams.

Fraud is designed to be convincing. Smart, careful people fall for scams every day—and cybercriminals are constantly evolving their tactics.

So, here’s the most important advice we can give: If something feels off, trust your instincts. Stop and verify. We would much rather you call us with a false alarm than hesitate during a real threat. Because protecting your financial well-being isn’t just about technology—it’s about partnership, awareness and confidence.

Your peace of mind is invaluable and something no scammer should be able to take from you.

For more stay-safe tips, visit AssociatedBank.com/Contact/Security-Help.