Five Questions to Ask Before Making a Payment

Pause Before You Pay

An urgent message from a relative or an unexpected invoice can make a payment feel necessary. Before sending money, check the request independently. Some payments can be difficult or impossible to recover once they reach a scammer.

Was I expecting this payment request?

Consider whether the request fits a purchase, bill, or conversation you recognize. If an invoice arrives unexpectedly or payment instructions have changed, confirm the details with the business using contact information you already have.

Is someone rushing me?

A caller may threaten a service shutoff or insist that a family emergency requires immediate payment. Pressure can make it harder to check the facts. End the conversation and verify the situation before deciding what to do.

Does the payment method make sense?

Be cautious when someone insists on gift cards, cryptocurrency, a wire transfer, or a payment app for an unexpected request. A demand to buy gift cards and share the card numbers and PINs is a scam warning sign.

Have I confirmed who will receive the money?

Call the person or business through a number you know is correct. Do not use the number included in the unexpected message. If a relative appears to need help, contact them directly or ask another family member to confirm the situation.

Am I being told to keep this secret?

A request to avoid discussing the payment with family or your banker is another reason to stop. Talk through the situation with someone you trust. You can also contact Iowa State Savings Bank if you have concerns about a payment request.

If you already sent money and believe the request was a scam, contact your bank and the payment provider immediately. Ask whether the payment can be stopped or reversed. Recovery is not guaranteed, but acting promptly is important.