Zelle & Instant Payment Scams

Scammers trick you into sending money through apps like Zelle, Venmo, or Cash App by pretending to be your bank, a company you trust, or even a friend or family member. Since these payments happen instantly and are treated like cash, they’re nearly impossible to reverse once sent. A common tactic is a fake fraud alert that prompts you to “verify” a transaction—ironically, by sending money to the scammer.

mobile-transaction
atm-screen


ATM & Debit Card Fraud

Criminals install devices like skimmers or fake keypads on ATMs, gas pumps, and card readers to steal your card information and PIN. Once they have it, they can clone your card and make unauthorized purchases or withdrawals. Some scammers may also "shoulder surf" to catch your PIN or pose as helpful strangers when a machine malfunctions.​


Fake Check Scams

You receive a check that looks legitimate—maybe for a job, an online sale, or a sweepstakes win. You're asked to deposit it and then send part of the money back using cash, a wire transfer, or a payment app. The check clears at first, but days (or even weeks) later, it bounces—and you're left responsible for the full amount.

checkbook-writing
Wire Transfer graphic of keyboard


Wire Transfer Fraud

Fraudsters often pose as vendors, real estate agents, or even executives from your own company, sending emails or messages with updated “wire instructions.” These can look completely legitimate—but the new account info routes the funds straight to a scammer. Once the wire is sent, it’s nearly impossible to reverse. This scam is common in business settings but also targets consumers during major transactions like buying a home.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU ARE A VICTIM

  • Call us immediately so they can close your accounts.
  • Contact the fraud unit of the three credit reporting agencies. Place a fraud alert on your credit report and consider placing a credit freeze so the criminal can’t open new accounts. The fraud unit numbers are:
    • Equifax: (800) 525-6285
    • Experian: (888) 397-3742
    • TransUnion: (800) 680-7289
    • Report the fraud to the Federal Trade Commission at consumer.gov/idtheft or call 1-877-IDTHEFT (1-877-438-4338).
    • File a police report.
    • Make sure to maintain a log of all the contacts you make with authorities regarding the matter. Write down names, titles and phone numbers in case you need to re-contact them or refer to them in future correspondence.
    • For more advice, visit the FTC’s website at consumer.gov/idtheft

Frequently asked questions

The web site you have selected is an external site not operated by Horizon Bank. This link is provided for convenience and informational purposes only and Horizon does not endorse and is not responsible for the content links, privacy policy or security policy of this website or app you are about to visit.  Horizon Bank is not responsible for (and does not provide) any products, services or content for this third-party site or app, except for products and services that explicitly carry the Horizon Bank name. Click Proceed to continue or Cancel to go back.