Stay Safe from Zelle Scams
Protect yourself from bank impersonation, rental fraud, and job offer scams. Learn how to use Zelle safely.
What You'll Learn
Common Zelle Scams
Recognize these sophisticated fraud schemes targeting Zelle users
Bank Impersonation Scam
Critical RiskScammers pretend to be your bank, sending texts or calls about suspicious activity and asking you to "reverse" fraudulent transactions.
They trick you into sending money to yourself, but it actually goes to the scammer's account. Your bank will never ask you to send money to yourself to prevent fraud.
- Texts about suspicious activity
- Instructions to send money to yourself
- Urgent calls from "bank fraud department"
Rental Scam
Very High RiskFake landlords request Zelle payments for security deposits or first month's rent for properties they don't own or have no right to rent.
Often involves properties listed at below-market rates, pressure to pay quickly, and inability to view the property in person.
- Too-good-to-be-true rental prices
- Requests for Zelle payments for deposits
- Avoidance of in-person viewing
Job Offer Scam
High RiskFraudulent employers send fake checks for equipment purchases, then ask you to send money via Zelle to "vendors" who are actually scammers.
They offer attractive remote positions, send fake checks for "equipment," then ask you to Zelle money to their "approved vendor." The check bounces, but your Zelle payment is gone.
- Immediate hire without interview
- Check for equipment purchases
- Requests to Zelle "vendors"
Purchase Scam
High RiskSellers request Zelle payments for items they never intend to ship, often advertising on social media or classified sites.
Unlike credit cards or PayPal, Zelle offers no buyer protection. Once you send money, it's like handing over cash to a stranger.
- Insists on Zelle payment only
- Prices too good to be true
- Refuses to meet in person
Romance Scam
Very High RiskOnline romantic interests build emotional connections over time, then request Zelle payments for emergencies or travel expenses.
These scammers invest months building trust and emotional attachment before asking for money. They often claim to be military, doctors, or traveling businesspeople.
- Professes love quickly
- Can't meet in person
- Financial emergencies
Tech Support Scam
Medium RiskFake tech support calls claiming your computer is infected, then demanding Zelle payments for "repair services" or software.
They may gain remote access to your computer and show fake virus scans, then pressure you to pay immediately via Zelle to "fix" the problems.
- Unsolicited calls about computer problems
- Requests for remote access
- Immediate payment demands
How to Protect Yourself
Essential security practices for Zelle users
Only Send to People You Know
Zelle is designed for sending money to friends and family. Never send money to strangers, sellers, or people you've only met online.
Verify Before You Send
Double-check the recipient's phone number or email. Call them directly to confirm they requested money before sending.
Never Send for Purchases
Use credit cards or PayPal for online purchases. These offer buyer protection that Zelle doesn't provide.
Be Skeptical of Urgency
Scammers create false urgency. Legitimate requests can wait for verification. Take time to think and verify.
Monitor Your Account
Check your bank account regularly for unauthorized Zelle transactions. Report suspicious activity immediately.
Zelle Security Features
Built-in protections and how to use them effectively
Bank-Level Security
Zelle uses your bank's existing security infrastructure, including encryption and fraud monitoring.
Multi-Factor Authentication
Access requires your banking app login credentials and device authentication.
Transaction Notifications
Instant alerts for all sent and received payments help you monitor account activity.
Enrollment Protection
Your email or phone number can only be enrolled with one bank account at a time.
Transaction History
Complete records of all Zelle transactions are maintained in your banking app.
Contact Verification
Recipients must be enrolled with the email or phone number you're sending to.
I've Been Scammed - What Now?
Act quickly - Zelle transactions are usually irreversible
Contact Your Bank Immediately
Call your bank's fraud department right away. They may be able to stop or reverse recent transactions.
Bank Fraud NumbersFile a Dispute
Report unauthorized transactions through your banking app or by calling customer service.
Dispute ProcessReport to Zelle
Contact Zelle customer support to report the fraudulent transaction and get guidance.
Zelle SupportDocument Everything
Screenshot all communications, transaction details, and any evidence of the scam.
Evidence CollectionFile Police Report
Report the fraud to local police, especially for large amounts. Get a case number for your records.
Local PoliceReport to FTC
File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission to help track fraud patterns.
ReportFraud.ftc.govResources & Support
Official help and additional protection resources
Zelle Support
Official Zelle customer support, safety tips, and frequently asked questions.
Bank Resources
Contact your bank directly for Zelle-related issues, disputes, and account security.
Government Resources
Federal agencies that track and investigate financial fraud and scams.