What You Should Know About the *21 Call Forwarding Scam
A single phone code could give scammers a direct line to your private information. Broadway Bank is alerting customers to a growing call forwarding scam in which fraudsters trick people into activating phone features that may allow scammers to intercept calls, verification codes, and other sensitive communications intended for the customer.
What You Should Know About the Call Forwarding Scam
This type of scam may begin with an unexpected phone call, text message, or email from someone pretending to represent a trusted organization, such as a bank, mobile phone provider, delivery service, or other familiar company. The fraudster may claim there is suspicious activity, a problem with an account, or an urgent issue that must be addressed immediately.
How the Scam Works
During the interaction, the scammer may pressure the customer to dial a phone code, such as *21 or a similar star code, followed by a phone number the scammer provides. While these codes can be legitimate phone features used to activate call forwarding on certain mobile networks, scammers misuse them to redirect incoming calls to their own phone number.
Once call forwarding is activated, fraudsters may be able to receive calls that were meant for the customer. This can include one-time passcodes, account verification calls, or password reset communications. With that information, scammers may attempt to access online banking, reset passwords, or initiate unauthorized activity.
How to Protect Yourself
Broadway Bank encourages customers to stay alert and take the following steps to help protect their information:
- Do not follow instructions from unexpected callers to dial codes, install software or change phone settings.
- Never share one-time passcodes, online banking credentials, PINs, or verification codes with anyone who contacts you unexpectedly.
- Be cautious of calls or messages that create urgency or pressure you to act immediately.
- Hang up and contact the company directly using a phone number you know is legitimate, such as the number on your statement, debit card, or the company’s official website.
- Review account activity regularly and report anything suspicious as soon as possible.
If You Think You May Have Been Targeted
If you believe you may have followed instructions from a scammer or activated call forwarding, act quickly. Contact your mobile phone provider for help disabling call forwarding, change passwords for important accounts, review your financial activity, and contact Broadway Bank immediately if you see suspicious activity or believe your accounts may be at risk.
Fraudsters often rely on confusion, urgency, and trust to convince people to take action. Taking a moment to pause, verify, and contact the company directly can help protect your accounts and personal information.