Occasionally, you may receive a letter, phone call, text message or email from the bank asking you to confirm or update your personal or business information. We recognize that fraud is common, and these types of requests can understandably raise concerns—especially when we advise exercising caution. Here’s the difference: Bank of America will not reach out and ask for personal information with a request to withdraw, send or move money.
If you’re unsure about a communication, do not respond. Instead, contact us directly using the number on your card or statement.
Read on to learn more about why these requests matter and how to verify if a communication from Bank of America is legitimate.
Keeping your information current
Bank of America is required by law to maintain accurate and up-to-date customer information to comply with Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) standards. These regulations protect the financial system and help prevent fraud and financial crimes.
To remain compliant, Bank of America must periodically review and update customer information, even for long-standing accounts. That means you may hear from us occasionally, even if you have been a loyal customer for many years.
It’s important to respond within the timeline provided so your account remains in good standing. These requests are regulatory requirements, not optional. If we are unable to verify the required information, we may be obligated to restrict account access or, if left unresolved due to no response, close the account. If an account is closed, then a new account must be opened.
Help protect yourself from fraud
Fraudsters often impersonate banks or trusted organizations to trick people into sharing information or sending money. Here is how you can help stay safe:
- Hang up if a communication seems fraudulent and mentions Bank of America. Then, contact us directly using the number on the back of your card, a recent statement or by visiting your local branch.
- Treat any letter requesting sensitive information with caution. Confirm its authenticity using verified Bank of America contact methods, not the details provided in the letter.
- Forward any suspicious email or text message claiming to be from Bank of America to abuse@bofa.com.
- Never share personal or financial information with anyone you did not contact or have not validated through a verified bank channel.
Thank you for your partnership and for helping us keep your accounts protected.