Stay Safe When Sending Money Digitally
Digital payments are becoming increasingly common across the U.S., offering speed and convenience — but they also come with growing risks like identity theft and cybercrime. That’s why it’s important to take steps to protect yourself and your finances when sending or receiving money online.
One of the easiest ways to stay safe is to only send money to people you know and trust.
When you use Zelle®, your sensitive banking information isn’t shared — transfers are made using just an email address or U.S. mobile number linked to a bank account. Plus, Zelle® includes authentication and monitoring features designed to help keep your payments secure. Still, it’s important to pay it safe: use Zelle® only with people you trust1, and double-check that you’re sending to the correct U.S. mobile number or email address.
Here are five tips for using Zelle® safely:
- Send money only to people you trust.
Zelle® is meant for sending money to friends, family, and people you know1. Once a payment is sent to someone already enrolled with Zelle®, it can’t be canceled. If you send money to the wrong person or don’t receive what you were promised, you may not be able to recover your funds. - Think of Zelle® like cash.
Money sent with Zelle® moves quickly — often within minutes — directly to the recipient’s bank account. Once authorized, the payment can’t be reversed if the recipient is enrolled, so treat every transaction as if you were handing over cash. - Watch out for scams.
Be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true. For example, if someone you don’t know offers a deep discount on concert tickets and asks for payment through Zelle®, it’s likely a scam. Always use Zelle® to pay people you personally know and trust. - Verify recipient details.
Always confirm you have the correct U.S. mobile number or email address before sending money. A quick double-check can prevent your payment from going to the wrong person — and potentially being unrecoverable. - Know your payment options.
If you’re paying someone you don’t know or making an online purchase, using a credit card may be safer. Credit cards often include built-in buyer protections that Zelle® transactions do not. Review your card’s terms to understand what coverage you have.
Sources:
Zelle® Tips for Safe Payments | Zelle
1To send or receive money with Zelle®, both parties must have an eligible checking or savings account. Transactions between enrolled consumers typically occur in minutes. Check with your financial institution.
Zelle® and the Zelle® related marks are wholly owned by Early Warning Services, LLC and are used herein under license.