Spotting Trouble: Common Types of Fraud and Scams

In today’s digital world, financial scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated. As your trusted credit union, we want to help you stay one step ahead. Knowing the signs of fraud can help you prevent scammers from succeeding. Here are some of the most widespread schemes targeting individuals:

1. Phishing (Email, Text, and Call Scams)

Impersonators send fake messages pretending to be the credit union or a trusted company to steal sensitive info.

Red Flags:

• Messages with urgent warnings or account lockouts
• Links to unfamiliar websites
• Requests for passwords, usernames, access codes, PINs, or SSNs

Tip: Never click suspicious links. Contact us directly if you are unsure.

2. Card Skimming and Shimming

Devices attached to card readers (especially at ATMs or gas pumps) steal your card info when inserted or tapped.

Red Flags:

• Loose or bulky card slots
• ATMs that look tampered with or have hidden cameras

Tip: Use contactless or mobile wallets when possible.

3. Fake Tech Support Scams

A pop-up or call warns you of a “virus” on your device and asks for remote access or payment.

Red Flags:

• Pop-us with urgent tech alerts
• Unsolicited calls claiming to be from Microsoft, Apple, etc.
• Requests to download software

Tip: Close the window and never give remote access to your device.

4. Online Marketplace & Auction Scams

Fraudsters pose as sellers or buyers to trick you into sending money or goods.

Red Flags:

• Deals that seem too good to be true
• Requests for payment via gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency
• Pressure to act quickly

Tip: Use secure payment methods and verify the legitimacy of sellers.

5. Romance Scams

Scammers build online relationships, then invent emergencies that require financial help.

Red Flags:

• Quick declarations of love
• Refusal to meet in person
• Stories about financial trouble or needing money to travel
• Needing a US bank account for deposits

Tip: Never send money to someone you haven’t met in person.

6. IRS or Government Impersonation Scams

Someone claims you owe taxes or legal fees and threatens arrest unless you pay immediately.

Red Flags:

• Threats of jail, fines, or deportation
• Demands for payment via gift cards or crypto
• Caller ID spoofing government numbers

Tip: Government agencies will never demand payment over the phone or threaten you.

7. Check Fraud

You’re sent a check, asked to deposit it, then send part of the money back (via wire, gift card, cash, etc.) before the check bounces.

Red Flags:

• Overpayment for goods or services
• Request to “refund” money from a check
• Urgent instructions to act fast

Tip: Never deposit checks from strangers or return funds from one.

8. Account Takeover Fraud

A scammer gains access to your online banking and changes contact info or initiates transfers.

Red Flags:

• Alerts about log in attempts or password changes you didn’t make
• Missing funds or account changes

Tip: Use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication.

9. Charity Scams

Fraudulent “charities” ask for donations after disasters or during holidays.

Red Flags:

• High-pressure donation requests
• No verifiable website or Tax ID
• Vague description of how funds are used

Tip: Research charities at charitynavigator.org before giving.

10. Job Scams

Fake job postings that request personal info, upfront fees, or send “training checks”.

Red Flags:

• Get-rich-quick job offers
• Requests for bank info to “set-up direct deposit”
• Asking for money to apply or get hired

Tip: Apply through official company websites. Be cautious of jobs that sound too good to be true.

11. Puppy Scams

Scammers pose as breeders or pet sellers, offering puppies that don’t exist to steal money from unsuspecting buyers.

Red Flags:

• Refusal to meet in person
• Payment requested via gift cards, Zelle, or wire transfer
• Extra fees for shipping, crates, vaccinations
• Reused or generic pet photos

Tip: Only buy pets from verified breeders or shelters. Never send money for a pet you haven’t seen live.

12. Mortgage Closing Scams

Fraudsters impersonate title companies or lenders and trick homebuyers into wiring closing funds to fake accounts.

Red Flags:

• Last-minute emails with updated wire instructions
• Urgent messages urging quick action
• Slight changes in email addresses or domain names

Tip: Always verify wire transfer details by phone using a trusted number. Don’t rely solely on email communication.

13. Money Mules

Fraudsters recruit individuals, often unknowingly, to transfer money or goods on their behalf. These individuals, called “money mules”, are tricked into wiring funds or receiving and reshipping products.

Red Flags:

• Job offers with vague descriptions or no official company website
• Offers to “help” with financial transactions or receive payments in exchange for commission
• Request to transfer money or goods without clear reason

Tip: Be cautious of unsolicited job offers that promise easy money. Always research the company and role thoroughly.