Jo Ann Deal with the Better Business Bureau sends a warning to residents to be aware of mobile payment scams.

Deal says if you are sending money to someone using your bank app or mobile app it is important to follow these three steps:

(1) Never hand your phone over to a stranger who asks for it — even if it seems convenient. Bank accounts have different (and fewer) protections than credit cards, so your bank may not reverse a fraudulent transaction – no matter how large or small.

(2) Always use two-factor authentication (like a PIN code) for banking and payment apps, so no one else can transfer money through your mobile payment accounts.

(3) Already sent money to a scammer? Contact your bank or a mobile payment app company immediately. Ask them to reverse the transfer and give your money back.

Deal says scammers will target anyone so consumers need to be prepared to notice when someone is trying to scam them.

If you feel you are a victim of these scams or others, contact the BBB at (318)-387-4600.