Cash App Scams Are On The Rise

Peer-to-Peer (P2P) mobile payment services, such as installment loans North Dakota Venmo, Zelle, and Cash App, have become popular digital solutions for everyday consumers. These apps allow you to transfer and receive money from friends and family, all with the click of a button. You can link your bank accounts, credit or debit cards and instantly send money to someone, making for a quick and easy transfer.

Cash App is a popular choice among consumers, as its interface is easy to use and navigate; it allows users to quickly send someone money, receive money, or invest in stocks. Cash App, though, has recently come under fire as reports of fraudulent behavior are making headlines.

If you are a Cash App user, here are some scams to look out for, along with ways you can protect yourself and your personal information.

One way that scammers are taking advantage of customers is by pretending to be Cash App support. Cash App does not have a direct line to their customer service, so scammers are pretending to be their support line to gain access to mobile devices and steal personal information. Unknowing customers might Google search for a support line phone number and come across a website that appears to be support for Cash App users, but is actually a scam.

Once you call, these scammers will encourage you to download a screen sharing app, so they can have access to your phone, under the guise of “helping you.” In reality, they are trying to steal your personal information. There have also been reports of this fake support line directly asking for the debit/credit card number on your Cash App, your Cash App PIN, or security information. In both circumstances, your bank account information and personal information would be compromised.

The website where these reports originated from has reportedly been taken down, but the Better Business Bureau is encouraging consumers to be keep an eye out for anything suspicious that they may come across.

A popular event on Twitter and Instagram is Super Cash App Friday, where the official Cash App account hosts a sweepstakes to win cash prizes. This sweepstakes encourages users to follow and share a post, and they are entered into a sweepstakes to win money.

However, scammers are preying on those who have entered to win the giveaway. Scammers are creating fake accounts on these social platforms and then private messaging users who have shared Cash Apps giveaway social post. The scammers will tell you that you won a cash prize in a separate giveaway, but there’s one catch: you need to send THEM a small amount of money first to verify your identity so that you can claim the large cash prize. Once you send them money, the account blocks you and you’re cash is gone.

These scammers might also send a fake Cash App link for users to sign into so that they can steal your login credentials. So, not only do they have your hard-earned cash, but they also have your personal information.

These types of scams have been heightened during the COVID-19 pandemic, as many find themselves in need of fast cash. These scammers will often claim to be influencers or say that they want to help other people during a difficult time and give back, only to take advantage of unknowing individuals.

We know how convenient it is to use P2P digital solutions, and we want you to use them safely! Here are some things to remember and keep in mind as you spend.

Know the Rules

Giveaways and sweepstakes are fun, and if you decide to participate in one, make sure you know the rules and verify its legitimacy. Authentic giveaways and sweepstakes will never request that you send cash to verify identity; report any social media account claiming this, as it is a scam.

Only Send Funds to People you Know

When sending someone cash through Cash App, make sure you only send cash to someone you know and double-check that their username is correct. It can be easy to use Cash App for payment of services or goods, but it is much safer to transfer money between family and friends. Keep in mind that all transactions with Cash App are instant and cannot be cancelled. So, even if you mistakenly send cash to the wrong person, Cash App often will be unable to cancel the transaction or refund you the money.

Set up Security Features

One of the best ways to protect your personal information is to set up security features. Cash App will allow you to set up a PIN or fingerprint to make transactions, turn on two factor authentication, and utilize email and text notifications so that you will be notified of any suspicious behavior.

Protect Sensitive Information

Remember: never give out your personal information. Cash App will never ask you to disclose personal information, such as a PIN or card number. If anyone who claims to work with Cash App requests this information, it is a red flag.

Cash App Support

There is no direct support line for cash app, so stay away from any website claiming to be Cash App support. If you need to speak to someone from Cash App, you will need to contact support through the mobile app. When you click on your Cash App profile, there is a tab at the bottom for support where users can find help resolving issues.

Here at Blackhawk Bank, we want to make sure that your information is secure and doesn’t end up in the wrong hands. If you are interested connecting your Cash App to your Blackhawk Bank account we can help you, contact us today!