Be Skeptical to Avoid Financial Fraud

Dealing with online, phone, and other financial scams is nothing new. Unfortunately, the scams keep changing and getting more and more sophisticated, making it hard to keep up with and understand what is real. While the scammers tactics keep changing, there are things you can do to protect yourself from becoming a victim.

Password/Code Sharing — Do not share codes sent to you for two-factor authentication or give out a password, even if it is requested for security purposes.

Overpayment — If you receive a check or electronic transfer and the sender claims it was a mistake or overpayment, do not return the money or send gift cards when requested. Insist they contact the bank to have the transaction reversed.

Investment — Protect yourself from investment scams by only investing with reputable companies. Disregard any sellers who promise immediate or unrealistic returns or encourage you to invest in unknown cryptocurrencies.

Gift Cards — Be suspicious of calls, emails, or text you receive from people you know asking you to buy them gift cards or send money; especially if this is an unusual request.

Computer Hack — If a message pops up on your computer telling you your computer has been hacked, do not call a number provided on the screen or provide any information. Unplug your computer immediately and contact the bank directly to lock your accounts.

Email — Do not open emails or attachments from people you don’t know or that you aren’t expecting. If the suspicious message looks like it is from someone you know, contact them directly to verify.

If you get one of these calls or messages – please be skeptical. Do not follow instructions. Hang up and contact us, or the person or organization directly (not the number they provide). We never want anyone to fall victim to one of these scams. If it is us calling, we won’t mind you taking the extra steps to be sure.