The most common types of scams will try to target you through fake emails, text messages, phone calls, letters, or those brave ones that actually show up at your front door.

3 Signs that you are being scammed

1. You are asked to pay money in an unusual way. By wire transfer, codes, or payment apps.
2. Pressure to act immediately with an alarming phone call, text, or email from a familiar organization.
3. You are asked to provide personal account information. Remember that your bank or Amazon will never text, email or call you asking for account authorization.
4. You are offered a free product or a ‘get rich quick’ or that you’ve won something like a new iPad. If something is too good to be true IT IS!

Remember:

• If you authorize or send money to a scammer, there is little that you can do to get your money returned.
• NEVER answer the phone from unknown numbers. Silence unknown numbers. Folks who need to speak to you will leave you a message.

Scammers use different tactics to get you to fall for their schemes.

1. Imposter Scams – scammers like to pose as familiar businesses or people you know. Banks usually send you a 2-step verification to validate unusual activity.
2. Online Sales Scams – don’t act without thinking. Do not wire transfer money.
3. Real Estate Scams – before sending any money, always independently confirm instructions via a phone call or in person. Be extra cautious if pressured to urgently send a security deposit.
4. Investment Scams – think twice if you are asked to send money through digital currency, crypto, or bitcoin.
5. Romance Scams – update your privacy settings, and avoid posting personally identifiable information on social media.
6. Technology Scams – no matter what reason you’re given, never grant device access or download any app at the request of unknown companies or individuals. Always check the location. Always confirm the identity.
7. Compromise Scams – never trust unknown individuals. Verify everything they claim and do not send sensitive information. Give all requests a second look.
8. Natural Disaster Scams – watch out for fake contractors, do your research, get multiple quotes, be extra careful when giving through social media, and know how to spot imposters.

How to protect yourself:

• Stay vigilant about being pressured to act quickly and don’t act unless you’ve verified the person who has contacted you and that the story or request is legitimate.
• Know that disaster relief organizations typically do not charge fees to apply for assistance.
• Ask for proof of ID and remember: if you’re asked for financial information, it could be a scam.