Let's Get Personal: Questions Your Banker May Ask to Keep Your Account Secure

An unexpected question from your banker could be an important step in protecting your account. 

Your banker may occasionally ask a question that feels unexpected, especially when you are withdrawing money, updating personal information, or completing an unusual transaction. These questions are not meant to make banking more difficult. They are an important part of confirming your identity, understanding the transaction, and helping protect your account from fraud. 

Where Scammers Find the Information They Need 

Scammers can obtain personal information through data breaches, phishing emails, text message scams, and even social media. When personal details such as your name, address, phone number, or email address fall into the wrong hands, fraudsters may attempt to access your accounts or impersonate you. While this information alone isn't enough to verify someone's identity, banks use additional security measures and verification steps to help protect your accounts and stay one step ahead of scammers. 

Why Your Bank May Ask More Questions  

Verification helps you prevent financial loss. A few additional questions may help you avoid:  

• Unauthorized withdrawals  

• Wire transfers  

• Account takeovers  

When Your Bank May Ask More Questions  

Here are additional situations when bankers will be more cautious and likely ask more questions, especially if they are not common activities for your account:  

• Large withdrawals  

• Changes to contact information  

• Address change request 

• Unusual account activity  

Ways You Can Help Protect Your Information  

While answering a few security questions may take an extra minute or two, it will make all the difference in protecting your accounts and preventing fraud. Continue protecting your account by ensuring your contact information is up to date, enrolling in account alerts, using strong passwords for online/mobile banking, and enabling multifactor authentication (MFA) when available.