I may be overthinking this, but I called my bank and they asked me to confirm my phone number so they could send a text with a code for verification. My rule is to avoid giving out any personal information over the phone whenever possible, even if I initiated the call—just in case it’s not a legitimate business.
I feel like a safer approach would be for the bank to text the number they have on file and ask for the code, or maybe just ask me to confirm the last four digits of my number instead of the full number. While I understand that matching the full number with what they have on file is an extra security measure, it seems risky because it encourages freely giving out information that could be used improperly.
So, am I being overly cautious, or is this a legitimate concern?
Hello Brian, Here is my suggestion, It’s an additional identity verification step, matching the number on your profile with the one you called from. Most reputable banks won’t send a code to a number that isn’t already saved in your customer profile.
Hello, From my end , I will suggest If you have any paperwork or disclosures from the bank, use the contact number provided there. As mentioned earlier, since you initiated the call, the risk of a scam is significantly lower. Plus, unlike a Social Security Number, your phone number is probably accessible online and easy to find.
Hi Brian, It’s okay to be cautious, but your assumption seems a bit extreme. You’re essentially saying you don’t trust yourself to call the correct bank number. The best advice is to use the number on your card or from online banking. Your approach doesn’t protect you, it just blocks verification.
Hi, It’s unreasonable. Since you initiated the call, you know you’re speaking to your bank. Refusing may raise their suspicions, especially if you’re handling “high-risk” tasks like updating an address or removing a Zelle hold. If they call you, that’s when you should be cautious and call them back directly.