There is a science to scams, and it may surprise you to know how sophisticated criminals can be. Unfortunately, what you don’t know about a scam can cost you plenty. Some common fraud techniques include:
- Establishing a connection: Fraudsters want to build rapport with you, whether that’s face-to-face or online.
- “Credibility”: Scammers go to great lengths to appear legitimate by creating fake websites, bogus emails, etc.
- Playing on emotions: Your emotions can be used against you, by getting you to make a quick decision before you have time to think about it. Many scams include a “limited time offer” or even an urgent call for help — perhaps appearing to be from a loved one.
For information on how to protect yourself and your CEFCU accounts, go to the Security Center at cefcu.com/security. More information and tips are also available from the Better Business Bureau at bbb.org/scam.
Tips to Protect Yourself:
- Don’t respond to emails, texts, or phone calls asking for personal or financial information.
- Don’t be pressured into making quick decisions.
- If you’re unsure about a call or email that claims to be from your financial institution, utility company, etc., call the business using a phone number you can verify independently! For example, call a phone number that’s printed on your bill/account statement or on the back of your credit card.