Identity and impersonation scams: how to tell what's real

Common Identity & Impersonation Scam Red Flags

1. Fake bank calls and texts:

Scammers may pretend to be Panacea or another financial institution using phone calls or text messages.

• Caller ID spoofing: Fraudsters can make calls appear to come from a trusted phone number.
• SMS phishing (smishing): Text messages may include links asking you to log in or verify account information.
• Messages that create urgency, such as claiming suspicious activity on your account.

How Panacea contacts customers:
Panacea will never ask for your password, PIN, or one-time verification codes by phone, text, or email.

2. Government and IRS impersonation scams:

Fraudsters may pretend to be government agencies and threaten penalties or demand payment.

• Fake tax bills: Messages claiming you owe taxes and must pay immediately
• Social Security threats: Calls or letters stating your Social Security number has been suspended or flagged
• Requests for payment using gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency

Government agencies typically send official notices by mail—not urgent payment requests by phone or text.

3. Employment and scholarship scams:

Scammers target students and professionals with fake job offers or financial opportunities.

• Fake job offers: Requests to pay for training, equipment, or background checks upfront.
• Fake grants or scholarships: Offers promising financial aid in exchange for fees or personal information.
• Unexpected job offers with unusually high pay or minimal requirements.

Legitimate employers and scholarship programs do not require upfront payments.

Important: Fraudsters often create urgency or fear to pressure you into acting quickly. Take time to verify requests before sharing personal or financial information.

What to do: 

• Do not share passwords, PINs, or verification codes.
• Do not click links from unexpected texts or emails.
• Verify requests using trusted contact information.
• Contact Panacea Support if you’re unsure.