Protect Yourself From Common Scams

Scams are becoming increasingly advanced, using methods like social engineering, fake investment opportunities, and impersonations to target anyone who will believe it. Staying alert, confirming unexpected communications, and safeguarding personal details about you will lower your risk significantly. Recognizing warning signs and knowing how to react will keep both you and your finances better protected.

Be Skeptical of Out of the Blue Communication

Fraudsters often try to establish a new friendship, or they often pretend to be reputable organizations such as banks, government agencies, or large businesses. This is so they can gain your trust and access your information. If someone contacts you out of the blue, always confirm who they are and don't share anything personal about you. This is especially important if they request sensitive details, money, or access to any of your devices.

Double-Check Before You Click

Links sent through text, or social media may look legitimate but can lead to fake websites or install harmful software. More often than not, you should avoid clicking altogether to protect your personal and financial data. This is especially true if you didn't initiate contact with the sender, and they contacted you out of the blue. 

Trust Your Instinct & Talk to Your Bank

If an offer appears unrealistic or makes you suspicious, it’s a scam. Criminals use tactics like urgent matters, prize claims, or emotional manipulation to pressure you. Pause, think through the situation, before taking any action or sharing information. Family, friends and your bank can talk this through with you!

Keep Your Information Private

Only provide personal or financial details when you have intentionally initiated the interaction and when you are confident of the recipient’s identity. Keep in mind that legitimate institutions, like your bank, will not ask for confidential information such as passwords or PIN numbers through email, text or unsolicited phone calls.

What To Do If You Realize Its A Scam

• End all contact with the criminals and stop moving money for them.
• Tell your bank right away.
• Report it to the Federal Bureau of Investigation at IC3.gov 
• Contact Us