Scam Prevention
Protect Yourself from Scams
Grandparent Scam: A scammer pretends to be your grandchild or another family member in trouble and urgently asks for money. Protect Yourself:
- Hang up and call your family member directly.
- Ask a question only your loved one would know.
- Never send money because someone pressures you to act immediately.
Government Impersonation Scam: Someone claims to be from the IRS, Social Security, Medicare, or law enforcement. Remember:
- Government agencies do not demand immediate payment.
- They will never ask you to pay with gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers.
- Hang up and contact the agency using an official phone number.
Tech Support Scam: A pop-up or phone call claims your computer has a virus. Protect Yourself:
- Never allow unsolicited remote access to your computer.
- Do not call phone numbers listed in pop-up messages.
- If unsure, ask a trusted family member or computer professional.
Romance Scam: Someone you meet online develops a relationship and eventually asks for money. Red Flags:
- They avoid meeting in person.
- They ask for money, gift cards, or cryptocurrency.
- They have an excuse for every emergency.
Investment & Cryptocurrency Scams: Promises of guaranteed high returns or "once-in-a-lifetime" investment opportunities. Remember:
- If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
- Never invest under pressure.
- Talk with a trusted financial advisor before investing.
Sweepstakes & Lottery Scams
- You're told you've won a prize—but must pay taxes or fees first.
- Fact: You never have to pay money to receive a legitimate prize.
Red Flags to Watch For
🚩 Pressure to act immediately
🚩 Requests for secrecy
🚩 Payment by gift cards, cryptocurrency, wire transfer, or payment apps
🚩 Unexpected phone calls, emails, or text messages
🚩 Requests for passwords, account numbers, or personal information
🚩 Someone asking you not to tell your family
How to Protect Yourself
✔ Slow down and take your time.
✔ Never give personal or financial information to someone who contacts you unexpectedly.
✔ Verify requests by calling the person or organization directly using a trusted phone number.
✔ Discuss major financial decisions with a trusted family member or friend.
✔ Shred documents containing personal information.
✔ Review your bank and credit card statements regularly.
✔ Use strong passwords and enable multi-factor authentication whenever possible.
If You Think You've Been Scammed - Act Quickly!
- Stop communicating with the scammer.
- Contact your bank or credit card company immediately.
- Change any compromised passwords.
- Report the incident to your local law enforcement agency.
- Tell a trusted family member or friend.
"If something doesn't feel right, trust your instincts and verify before you act."
