How to Use Zelle® Safely and Securely

Zelle® makes it easy to send money directly between bank accounts, often within minutes. While it’s a convenient tool for paying friends, family, and people you know, it’s important to use it responsibly to avoid scams and fraud.

1. Only Send Money to People You Know and Trust

Think of Zelle like cash. Once money is sent, it may be difficult or impossible to recover if it goes to the wrong person.

Best Practice: Only use Zelle to send money to friends, family members, or trusted businesses you know personally.

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2. Verify Recipient Information Before Sending

A simple typo in an email address or phone number can send money to the wrong recipient.

Best Practice: Double-check the recipient’s name, email address, and phone number before confirming your payment. If possible, contact the recipient separately to verify the information.

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3. Beware of Urgent Requests and Payment Scams

Scammers often create a sense of urgency, claiming your account is compromised or that immediate action is required.

Best Practice: Never send money to someone who pressures you to act quickly. Legitimate banks will never ask you to send money to yourself or another account to “protect” your funds.

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4. Protect Your Online Banking Credentials

Your Zelle transactions are linked to your bank account, making account security essential.

Best Practice:

• Use strong, unique passwords.
• Enable multi-factor authentication when available.
• Never share login credentials, security codes, or one-time passcodes.

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5. Monitor Your Accounts Regularly

Reviewing your account activity can help you quickly identify unauthorized transactions or suspicious behavior.

Best Practice: Set up account alerts and regularly check your transaction history. If you notice anything unusual, contact your financial institution immediately.

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Remember

Zelle is designed for sending money to people you know and trust—not for purchasing items from strangers online. By verifying recipients, staying alert to scams, and protecting your account information, you can enjoy the convenience of Zelle while helping keep your money secure.

When in doubt, stop and verify before you send. A few extra moments of caution can help prevent costly mistakes.