Fraud Trends to Watch Out for This Week

Scammers are always coming up with new ways to trick people, and this week is no exception. Here are a few of the top scams making the rounds and what you can do to protect yourself.

Fake Toll Texts
If you get a text saying you owe money for unpaid tolls, don’t click the link. These messages may look official but lead to fake websites designed to steal your info. Always check your account through the toll provider’s official website.

Fake Bank/Credit Union Calls
Scammers are calling people pretending to be from their bank or credit union, warning of suspicious activity and asking for personal information. If this happens to you, hang up and call your financial institution directly using the number on the back of your card or off your statement..

Online Marketplace Payment Scams
Be cautious when selling items online. Some scammers pretend to be buyers and send fake payment confirmations. Always verify that the money has hit your account before handing anything over. Keep in mind sometimes checks take time to clear and may still be returned on a closed account or the scammer may have a stop payment on the check- taking your items without paying. 

Deepfake Investment Videos
AI-generated videos of public figures are being used to promote fake investment schemes. If something seems too good to be true, it probably is. Research any opportunity before taking action.

Government Impersonation Calls
Calls claiming your Social Security number has been compromised are making the rounds again. Legitimate agencies won’t call out of the blue demanding personal info or payment. Hang up and report it.

Quick Tips to Protect Yourself:
  • Don’t click on unknown links
  • Never give out personal info to unsolicited callers
  • Use multi-factor authentication
  • Monitor your accounts regularly
  • When in doubt, verify directly

For more tips, visit our Security Center and be sure to sign up for News & Alerts. Have questions or think you’ve spotted a scam? We’re here to help.

Call us at (419) 381-2323 or visit educacu.com.

Posted by Maggie Latham in Fraud & Scams.