June 20, 2022
Let’s talk about scams.
Scammers disguise themselves in many ways and will call, email, or text to trick you into giving them your money and personal/financial information. They pretend to be:
- The government, police, FBI, or any other business.
- A family member or friend in an emergency, hurt, or in need of fast funds.
- From a sweepstakes to congratulate you on winning a large prize.
They want your money! Scammers will say anything to convince you the situation is legitimate so you are more likely to send them your money. Or they pressure you to act quickly by instructing you to deposit a check with the purpose to send the funds back to them. By the time you are notified the check is fraudulent, the funds are gone, and you are responsible for the lost funds.
Be aware of these possible situations.
You are…
- Promised a prize or lottery winning, but first need to pay upfront fees or taxes.
- Asked to purchase gift cards.
- Asked by a friend online to send money to them or their relatives.
- Asked to send money to a relative who is in trouble, hurt, or needs funds fast.
- Asked to not tell anyone or told to lie to your bank about the purpose of the cash.
- Asked to cash a check as a favor.
- Sent a check for more than the expected amount.
- Hired to work at home but asked to deposit checks or move funds through your own account as part of the job.
- Instructed to deposit a check, then send funds back to the sender or a new person or business you do not know.
What should you do if you suspect you are a victim of a scam?
- Stop all communications with the scammer.
- Contact your bank (using a trusted number).
- Alert your friends and family by sharing your story.
- Monitor your accounts.