The Federal Trade Commission warned of scammers who loiter near military banks or approach service members asking to use their phones or cards, then exploit that access to drain accounts. The consumer alert lists red flags and advises avoiding cash, gift‑card or wire payments and reporting suspicious approaches.

The Federal Trade Commission issued a consumer alert describing a growing scam targeting military personnel at or near base credit unions and banks. Scammers reportedly approach service members asking to borrow phones or payment cards or to assist with a transaction, then use the temporary access to copy card data, intercept mobile authentication, or initiate unauthorized transfers that rapidly drain accounts. The FTC emphasized common red flags—unexpected requests to hand over devices or cards, pressure to transfer funds or buy gift cards, and reluctance to transact with bank staff present—and urged immediate refusal and notification of bank employees when approached. The agency provided practical steps for service members and their families, including keeping cards and devices secure, enabling multi‑factor authentication tied to devices you control, monitoring account activity frequently, and reporting suspicious contacts to banks and law enforcement. The alert also stressed avoiding nonrevocable payment methods such as wire transfers or gift cards for urgent requests and recommended contacting a bank promptly for potential recovery options if compromise occurs.