If you’ve ever needed to pay your friend back for lunch, split a utility bill, or send a birthday gift in a pinch, you know how convenient money transfer apps can be. That’s why we’re proud to offer Zelle®: a fast, easy, and secure way to send money directly between almost any U.S. bank accounts.
With Zelle, you can send money to people you trust in just minutes using only their email address or mobile number. There’s no need to write a check, carry cash, or wait days for funds to clear. It’s all about keeping your finances moving at the speed of life.
But like all great tools, Zelle is best used with a little caution and a lot of common sense.
Know Before You Send
Zelle operates just like cash. Unlike credit cards or payment platforms that offer buyer protection, Zelle transactions are instant and irreversible, which means once the money is sent, it’s gone. That’s why being aware of common scams is critical to using the tool safely and securely.
Here are 5 tips you should keep in mind to get the most out of the convenience of Zelle.
1. Know Your Recipient
Only use Zelle with people you know and trust, like friends, family, roommates, or coworkers. Zelle is not meant for purchases from strangers or online marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace, eBay, or Craigslist. If you’re paying for goods or services from someone you don’t know, consider a payment method that offers fraud protection. If the seller won’t accept alternate payments, this should be a red flag.
2. Verify Before You Send
Once money is sent with Zelle, it’s gone. Before sending money, always double-check the recipient’s email address or phone number before confirming a payment. If you’re unsure or are sending money to someone for the first time, send a small test amount first and confirm they received it.
3. Protect Your Information
Like any other software or app, hackers and scammers can gain unauthorized access to your account, despite your best efforts. However, there are some steps you can take to best safeguard your account:
- Keep your mobile banking app and device software up to date.
- Use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication.
- Never share your login credentials or one-time verification codes with anyone, even if they claim to be from your credit union or Zelle.
- Remember: Neither Great Basin nor Zelle will ask for this information.
4. Beware of Scams & Red Flags
With new technology comes new scam techniques. Remember to listen to your gut when performing any online transaction
- Urgent or emotional pleas (“I’m stranded, send money now!”)
- Too-good-to-be-true deals (concert tickets or no/low deposit on an apartment)
- Fake product listings (you pay for an item on an online marketplace, but it never arrives or the seller never replies to plans to meet up to pick up item)
- Messages that claim to be from your Great Basin (or other financial institution) or Zelle but ask you to confirm your identity by clicking links or entering your personal information.
5. Set Alerts and Notifications
Enable notifications through online or mobile banking to get alerts every time a transaction is made with your card or account. This can help you detect any unauthorized activity quickly, not just with Zelle® but any transaction!
Zelle is a powerful tool when used with intention and caution. Just like locking your front door or shredding sensitive documents, practicing a few smart habits with Zelle can keep your money and information safe. By staying informed and alert, you can enjoy all the benefits of fast, digital payments without putting your hard-earned money at risk.
Want some additional tips and resources? Check out Zelle’s education center.