Fraud & ID Theft

RESOLVE TO REDUCE YOUR RISK OF FRAUD THIS YEAR

SCAM ALERTS - MARCH 2023
PHONE SCAMMERS CLAIMING TO BE 1ST CCU
1st Community Credit Union is aware of recent scam phone calls in our area, with the caller fraudulently claiming to be from the credit union "Fraud Department".
The caller creates a sense of urgency to get you to disclose sensitive information, account numbers, or your Online or Mobile Banking user name and password. They may use a script that makes the conversation sound legitimate. It could go something like this:
    • "We have detected an attempt to use your card, did you do this transaction?"
    • "To verify that I am speaking to the right person, what is your account number?"
    • "We'll need to reset your online banking password, what is your user name?"
    • "We've sent a verification code to your phone, please read the code back to us."
    • "We'll block your card's PIN so the card cannot be used again. What is the PIN?"
Once a scammer has your online banking credentials, they can quickly log into your online banking and transfer funds from your savings to your checking, then fraudulently set up Cash App, Pay Pal, Online Bill Pay, or similar transactions to send money from your checking account to themselves using a fake company name, etc.  They also change your password so that YOU cannot log in. 
Remember: If you receive a call claiming to be from 1st Community Credit Union and you have never dealt with that employee before or you weren't expecting a call from 1st CCU,  it is wise to take the caller's name, then hang up and call the credit union directly and ask for that employee. The toll-free number to  
ONLINE EMPLOYMENT PHONE SCAM
This type of scammer posts a job opportunity to work online (for example, a freelance position). Once they tell you you've got the job, they ask for your Online or Mobile banking user name and password so they can set up a direct deposit of your paychecks.
In another version of an employment scam, the job responsibilities include receiving funds into your account and then using those funds to send Western Union wires or purchase bitcoin. The employer may ask that you provide them with your online banking user name and password so they can 'track' the transactions they are paying you to perform. This is a scam.
Remember: YOU are the only person who should ever have access to your accounts via Online or Mobile banking.
 
SCAM ALERT - FEBRUARY 2023
February is often referred to as the “romance month”. Unfortunately, the idea of facing Valentine’s day without a “special someone” may lead some unsuspecting people to be more vulnerable to online Romance Scams. While young people are more likely to fall victim to online scams overall, older people are more susceptible to romance scams. This pattern accelerated during the isolation of the pandemic. 
YOU might be in a Romance Scam if your new "special someone"...
  • After initial contact on a legitimate dating site, requests that you communicate by e-mail or messaging service
  • Avoids communicating “face-to-face”, including Face Time calls or any other type of video chat
  • Calls you their “boyfriend” or “girlfriend”, although you have never met
  • Claims to be from the U.S., but is living, working or traveling abroad
  • Claims that your relationship is “destiny” or “fate”
  • Shares a picture of themselves that could be a model from a magazine
  • Asks for gift cards, reloadable cards, a wire transfer, for any reason, before you have met in person
  • Asks for financial support to pay for a plane ticket or other travel expenses, for any type of medical expenses, to pay custom fees to retrieve something, pay off a debt, or pay for traveling documents
  • Has made plans to meet you, but something has always come up
  • Tells you they are in the military stationed in another country
  • Uses odd grammar or spelling
  • Asks to send a large sum of money to your credit union account
  • Asks for personal information, such as your birthday, credit union account information, Social Security Number, home address and Zip code, names of your pets and children, or password
  • Told you that someone close to them has been in an accident, or other type of crisis, and needs money
  • Suddenly adds you on social media and begins conversations that quickly lead to romance
  • Is drastically younger than you are

While none of these red flags is a sure indicator of a romance scam, any one of them should trigger the need to be cautious, and be a reminder to NEVER send money in any form to someone you have not met in person.

  • Be vigilant and protect your hard-earned funds at all times. If something doesn't seem right, abandon your purchase and shop elsewhere.
  • Update your computer or phone software regularly and utilize anti-spyware programs
  • Utilize tools provided by your financial institution:
    • eAlerts that are sent when a transaction hits your account
    • Use Online or Mobile Banking features that allow you to turn ON and OFF your card or LOCK your card when you aren't initiating a purchase
    • Keep your financial institution notified of any changes to your phone number and email address, as these are how they attempt to contact you to verify whether a transaction that's trying to post to your card is legitimate
    • Ask if automated fraud alerts are available for your card
    • Review your account activity and/or review your statements regularly so you can spot suspicious transactions that you didn't perform
    • Notify your financial institution IMMEDIATELY if you see anything suspicious on your account
    • Victims of online scams may also report it to the FBI by calling 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324) or report it online at the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3.gov).

Recently there has been an increase in the number of Credit Card and Debit Card fraud incidents reported to the Credit Union.  The majority of the recent fraud involves online shopping, including fraudulent online shopping websites and unsecure online transactions. Online Shopping scams happen year round, but there was definitely a noticeable increase in the final months of 2022.
How to know if you're on a fake shopping website? According to a Reader's Digest article, there are several signs to look for:
  1. A foreign IP address.  Not all websites with foreign IP addresses are fraudulent, but transactions originating from a foreign IP address are about seven times riskier than average, according to an Experian report. 
  2. The domain name doesn't add up. Take a good look at the domain name to see if it's actually what you think it is, or if it varies slightly from what you're expecting. Other tip-offs to fake websites include bad grammar or no encryption at the point of purchase.
  3. The URL is "http" instead of "https".  The "s" stands for Secure, and it means that all communications between your browser and the website are encrypted, as they should be for your protection.
  4. The website asks for your financial information while you are browsing. This could be in the form of an email or a pop-up message that asks for your financial info. Don't reply or follow the link. The U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) recommends closing out the browser window immediately if you get a financial request while browsing, as legitimate companies never ask for information that way.
  5. Red Flag words. Be sure to read the seller's description of the product closely. Words like "refurbished", "vintage", or "close-out" in the fine print may indicate that the product is not in new condition.
  6. If it seems too good to be true, it is. You've heard this before, and it's excellent advice for preventing fraud. If the price of an item you're shopping for is much lower than what you've seen on other sites, that's a good sign that you're being scammed or the item is counterfeit.
  7. Nonexistent return policy. Before you buy, read the warranty information, return policy, and refund policy. If you can't return the item you're buying for a full refund, or if the policy is sketchy or vague, don't purchase from the website.
  8. Nonexistent contact information. Scammers can easily set up an online shopping website under a false name. It's important to do some research if you are shopping on an unfamiliar site. A lack of contact information (no physical address listed) is a red flag. Call the phone number listed, ask questions, find out if it's a legitimate company. 
  9. Confusing or nonexistent privacy policy. If you can't find a privacy policy, or if you can't understand the privacy policy provided, the FTC advises you to consider shopping elsewhere. 
  10. Weird Google search results. When you are researching a website to find out if it's legit or not, try googling. Google the site and owner to check what the search results say. Experian suggests that you could also visit Google's Transparency Report to find out the safety rating.
  11. Bad reviews or reviews that don't make sense. Experian advises consumers to find reviews of the site or reviews of the owner of the business to learn what others have said about them. Or if reviews don't make sense, that's a red flag. Watch out for reviews that are extremely positive but written in non-standard English, or reviews from usernames that are a jumble of numbers and letters - these could be fake.
  12. No option to pay with a credit card. So you've done your due diligence and you are certain that the online seller checks all the right boxes. You're ready to purchase from the website, but the site does not allow payment via credit card. Don't go through with the order. Paying with a credit card protects your transaction under the Fair Credit Billing Act, under which charges can be disputed and payment to the seller temporarily withheld. Using (Important:  Don't use your debit card for online shopping. A debit card that is linked to your financial account is not a credit card and does not fall under the same protections as a credit card. When you give out your debit card it allows a company to take money directly from your account, and if fraud is committed you'll have a much harder time getting your money back.)  Also avoid websites that only accept payment in cryptocurrency or other obscure payment methods.
Online scams are not limited to shopping websites, scams can now happen via communications such as texts, emails, or direct messages in social media apps. 


SCAM ALERT - NOVEMBER 2022
1st Community Credit Union has been informed that some members may be receiving a scam text. (PICTURED BELOW)
Please do not call the phone number, do not return the text, do not respond in any way. This text is not coming from 1st CCU and the scammers who sent it are trying to get you to disclose your debit card number.
 
example of scam text


1st Community Credit Union strives to provide resources to help consumers learn about fraud and identity theft. Knowing about scams and recent trends in fraud can help you protect yourself from becoming a victim and suffering financial losses.


ZIX Secure Email Portal Secure Email Instructions

Secure Email

Use our ZIX Secure Email whenever you need to securely send messages or documents to an employee at 1st Community Credit Union. All information sent via ZIX Secure Email is encrypted, so your social security number, account numbers, and other sensitive personal identification information will be safely transferred. It's easy to use, just click the button above to go to the ZIX Portal and register (or sign in if you already have a ZIX account) to get started.


Debit Restrictions:   Due to numerous fraudulent transactions, 1st CCU cardholders will not be able to pay at the pump in some states.  When purchasing fuel with your debit card you must go inside to pay with the cashier in these states:

  • Florida
  • Georgia
  • Illinois
  • Michigan
  • New York
  • North Carolina

  • Click the Security Information image above to view more scam and fraud information.
These restrictions have been put into place for security purposes to protect our members' accounts from fraud.  We apologize in advance for any inconvenience.

Recent Scams (2022):

SCAMS SURROUNDING THE STUDENT LOAN FORGIVENESS
The Summer 2022 announcement regarding student loan debt forgiveness programs has already brought forth new scams. Please be aware that you do not need to pay anyone to "expedite" your student loan forgiveness. Emails, texts, or letters offering assistance with speeding up this process if you pay a fee are scams.

Free Trials Can Be Expensive: 1st CCU is aware that consumers receive multiple "free" trial offers online. The Federal Trade Commission urges consumers to use caution regarding these offers. Whether it's for teeth whitener, vitamins, or weight loss solutions, what sounds like a harmless opportunity to try before you buy could end up costing you a lot of money. Some of these businesses make it tough to cancel or place conditions on returns and cancellations that are so strict it is difficult to stop the deliveries and the billing. Or the free trial may come with a "small" shipping and handling fee, making you think you'll only be paying a few dollars but you're really being charged a much higher amount than you expected.

The most common complaints we've heard locally is that consumers are being charged for the full-size product PRIOR to receiving the Trial Product, leaving no time to test the free sample and make a decision to cancel if you aren't happy. Although not all trial offers are the same, they all come with specific conditions that are disclosed in the fine print.

  • It is YOUR responsibility to take your time and understand the terms and conditions BEFORE accepting any online offer.
  • It is your responsibility to contact the company to cancel, so if you decide to accept a free trial offer be sure you write down the company's contact information.
  • Look for pre-checked boxes, which if left checked may be giving authorization for sending you additional products other than what is advertised.
  • Research the company BEFORE you commit to a free trial offer. Use a search engine to search for reviews or complaints about the company.
  • Watch out for "free trial" offers that are actually an enrollment in a club or subscription (for exercise clothing, shoes, books, etc) that charge your card and ship more products to you each month unless you follow strict opt-out procedures on a monthly basis.

SCAM CALLS/VOICEMAILS FROM INDIVIDUALS CLAIMING TO BE DOING A 1ST CCU SECURITY CHECK
1st Community Credit Union is aware that members may be receiving calls/voicemails from individuals who claim to be completing a security check on behalf of 1st CCU.  If you receive a call like this DO NOT give out any personal information.  If you have concerns about your account after receiving a call/voicemail of this nature, please always reach out directly to 1st Community Credit Union by calling one of our branch offices or by contacting our Call Center to verify the activity in your account.   

SCAM INVOLVING FAKE CARD FRAUD ALERTS
1st Community Credit Union has been notified of a recent scam in which a credit union's members were targeted by fraudsters who knew the last 4 digits of an old card number and phone number. The fraudsters used that information to send fake card fraud alerts, upon which the fraudsters followed up with a phone call requesting digital banking credentials, one-time passcodes, etc.  It is suspected that in this case the fraudsters used information recycled from an old merchant data breach. The cards they sent fake alerts for were old cards which had been closed out and blocked.
Use caution when you receive alerts or notifications. If you have questions about the information received in an alert do not click on any links within the alert and do not call the phone number listed in the alert. (Remember: fraudsters know how to spoof a phone number to make it look like they are calling from a trusted business)
If you need to check the validity of the alert it is safest to call the 24/7 service phone number on the back of your card OR call 1st CCU during business hours.

Important Phone Numbers For Servicing Your Credit Card:

      • Mon-Fri 8am – 5pm: 608-269-8121 or 1-888-706-1228
      • Evenings and Weekends: 1-866-820-5786
      • Report Lost/Stolen Card: 1-800-449-7728 
Important Phone Numbers For Servicing Your Debit Card:
      • Mon-Fri 8am – 5pm:    608-269-8121 or 1-888-706-1228
      • Evenings & Weekends 1-866-820-8787
      • Report Lost/Stolen Card 1-800-449-7728
PHONE SCAMMERS CLAIMING TO BE 1ST CCU
1st Community Credit Union is aware of recent scam phone calls in our area, with the caller fraudulently claiming to be from the credit union. The phone number is programmed to look like a local number. 
  • On some calls the scammer claims that they are calling in regards to an Amazon purchase.
  • On some calls the scammer leaves a voice mail message claiming that the credit union is foreclosing on their property and giving a 1-800 phone number to call back.
  • One consumer received a call claiming to be from 1st CCU and stating that the person's loan payment was past due and needed to be paid by phone immediately. The consumer knew that his payments were up-to-date.
  • Remember that scammers are looking to create a sense of urgency to get you to disclose sensitive information or account numbers to them.
  • If you receive a call claiming to be from 1st Community Credit Union and you have never dealt with that employee before or you weren't expecting a call from 1st CCU,  it is wise to take the caller's name, then hang up and call the credit union directly and ask for that employee. 
AMAZON PHONE SCAM
Amazon is alerting the public to ongoing phishing schemes and cyber attacks that are escalating. One of the scams involves fraudulent phone calls from someone claiming to be from Amazon customer service. The fraudulent caller informs the victim of a recent issue on their account (such as suspicious charges or an outstanding account balance). The person is then instructed to provide financial details such as a credit union or bank account and credit card account numbers, as well as remote access to their computer in order to resolve the alleged account issues.  Some consumers are reporting getting a voice mail message related to this scam along with a toll-free number that they are instructed to call.
    • If you receive a call from someone claiming to be with Amazon, hang up immediately and do not call back.
    • Never allow unknown parties to remotely access your computer.
    • If you are concerned about any charges made on your debit or credit card or in your account, always contact your credit card company or financial institution directly.
Phishing refers to the practice of casting a wide net with a fraudulent claim (robocalls to multiple phone numbers, text blasts to multiple phones, emails send to multiple random email addresses) in the hopes of luring consumers to believe that they need to provide their sensitive personal or financial information, passwords, and more. They often pose as a legitimate company or person and they try to create a sense of urgency or panic to catch you off guard so you'll tell them what they want to know.
PAYPAL INVOICE SCAM
In this recent scam, fraudsters send a fake invoice through a real PayPal account. The email looks legit, but don't be fooled. If you pay this bogus invoice your money goes directly to the cybercriminals.

On this page you will find basic tips for protecting yourself as well as brief descriptions of scams. Or, if you prefer you can go to the Federal Trade Commission's website for more information on recent scams and what to watch for. 

Protect Your Family Members (young and old) From Fraud and Scams:

The security of today's technology can be overwhelming, especially for family members who may be new to using mobile devices and apps, such as grandparents or young teens. The best way to help your family stay secure is by making security as simple as possible for them. It is important to also share information on scams with older family members, college students, and friends. Scammers prefer to prey on the elderly and young people who are managing their own finances for the first time, often resorting to harassment if they feel it will get them the information they desire. Work together to come up with a plan of what to say and do if they are contacted with requests for sensitive information. Taking a few steps can have a big impact:

  1. Explain that scammers and con artists have been around for hundreds of years, they are just using the Internet now to try to fool their victims. Give examples of how scammers target their victims by pretending to be a government agency, financial institution, utility company, etc.  Be sure that family members understand the importance of never giving out sensitive personal information, account numbers, passwords, or remote access to their computer.  Explain that the more urgent the message seems (whether it is a text, phone call, or email) the more likely it is a scam. Let your family members know about romantic scams also, explaining that con artists prey on people who are lonely and longing for love by pretending to be their match made in heaven.  Let your loved ones know that they can contact you any time they are unsure about an email or phone call.
  2. Emphasize that scammers also still utilize phone and mail scams. They can still become victims if they don't know the warning signs. It's important to always be cautious of any unsolicited contact, even if the call or letter appears to be coming from a legitimate company or organization. 
  3. When setting up Home Wi-Fi access for anyone who is new to technology, take the time to make sure their wi-fi is password-protected. Consider using a secure form of DNS service that can help stop people from visiting infected websites. For younger family members, restrict websites that you don't want them to have access to.
  4. Help less tech-savvy family members keep their devices and systems updated and current. This makes it harder for scammers and hackers to compromise them. The simplest solution is enabling automatic updates.
  5. Inform family members about the importance of using secure passwords that are unique, and coach them to not use the same password across multiple sites.
  6. Mistakes can happen. Make sure reliable backups are in place and be sure that your loved ones know what to do and who to contact if they fall victim to a scam.

Protect Yourself From Fraud and Scams:

NEVER, NEVER, EVER give out your online banking user name and password to ANYONE.  Never give out your account number in response to an email or phone call or text that claims they will give you a loan or pay off your debt or deposit money into your account.  Your account number and online banking credentials  should always be kept private and secure to avoid becoming a victim of fraud.
Be smart, be safe, and always contact your financial institutions if you believe that you may have given out information that you should not have disclosed.
  • Never Give Out Sensitive Information: Never give anyone your Online Banking or Mobile Banking/Mobile App user name or password. Keep your account numbers, credit and debit card numbers and PINs, and social security number private and secure. If you receive a phone call, text or email that includes a request for this sort of sensitive personal or financial information, hang up or ignore the call or delete the text or email.
    • If your credit card has been compromised or lost, call 1-800-449-7728 to report it. They will assist you and arrange to issue you a new credit card.
    • If your debit card has been compromised or lost, you may contact 1st CCU at 608-269-8121 or toll-free at 1-888-706-1228 during business hours to report it and to request a new card. We can now print you a new ready-to-use debit card within minutes, so you no longer need to wait up to 3 weeks for your new debit card to arrive in the mail.
    • After business hours, please call 1-800-449-7728 to report a lost or stolen debit card.
  • Pay Attention To Account Activity: You are responsible for monitoring your account activity and notifying your financial institution of suspicious activity or fraudulent charges. Online Banking, Mobile Banking, and AccessPoint Credit Card Account Access are offered free of charge to 1st CCU members, as well as monthly paper statements and eStatements. 1st CCU also offers free E-Alerts for notification of daily account balance, online banking logins, and certain electronic transaction activity. For additional protection, ask a Member Service Representative to place a Password on your account. Once you've placed a secure password on your account you will give the password anytime you request information or transactions on your account in person or over the phone.
  • Inspect Credit Reports Annually: All consumers are entitled to a free copy of their credit report every 12 months from each of the 3 major credit reporting agencies. The ONLY website authorized by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to provide these free credit report copies is www.AnnualCreditReport.com. Consumers without internet access may request their free copies by calling 1-877-322-8228 or send a request by mail to: Annual Credit Report Request Service, PO Box 105281, Atlanta, GA 30348-5281.
  • Don't Become A Victim Of Phishing Scams: Always question any suspicious or "official-looking" emails, letters, or phone calls that ask for verification of sensitive information, and never click on links in unexpected or suspicious emails or social media messages. Hang up the phone without giving out any information or allowing access to your information or computer.
  • Protect Your Device: Every consumer who owns a computer, smart phone, tablet, or other internet-enabled device should understand what software and systems they have and configure them securely.
  • Use Strong Passwords: When you use the same User ID and Password across several websites you increase your risk. Use strong, unique passwords and don't recycle the same passwords for multiple online accounts.
  • E-mail is not secure: Never send your personal information via e-mail.
    Contact 1st Community Credit Union directly in person or by phone if you have questions about your credit union accounts. If you receive an e-mail or phone call from a business or an individual claiming to be affiliated with 1st Community Credit Union, do not give out any personal information. 1st Community Credit Union will never ask you to verify your personal information through e-mail. Question any suspicious or "official-looking" emails or letters, especially those requesting personal information to reinstate account access, claim a prize, or verify information. Never enter any of your Credit Union account numbers in response to an e-mail you receive.
  • Never respond to job offers you receive via unsolicited e-mail: This is one of the most prevalent scams in the past couple of years.
  • If you receive an unsolicited check in the mail, bring it directly to 1st CCU, along with a copy of any correspondence that accompanies the check. We will help you determine if the check is fraudulent.
  • If throwing away documents that contain personal, financial, and sensitive information, ALWAYS shred them.

NOTE: If you receive an email that claims to be from 1st Community Credit Union asking you to click on a link and enter personal information, please do not respond to the email and never give out your account number, social security number, or other personal information by email or telephone.


Previous Popular Scams Encountered In Our Area:

NETFLIX (AND OTHER STREAMING SERVICES) SCAMS:
Netflix is the world's largest streaming platform. Its popularity makes it one of the most impersonated brands among cybercriminals.  Over the years there have been many Netflix-themed scams that target current and potential Netflix subscribers.
HOW THEY TARGET CURRENT NETFLIX SUBSCRIBERS: Cybercriminals send phony email notifications claiming there is a problem with your billing information
HOW THEY TARGET POTENTIAL NETFLIX SUBSCRIBERS: Cybercriminals send emails advertising a deal for new accounts. 
Both of these types of emails include links that lead to webpages created by the cybercriminals to look like a Netflix webpage.  On the spoofed webpage you are asked to provide your personal and payment information. Any information you enter on those fake webpages is delivered straight to the cybercriminals.
These types of scams aren't limited to Netflix.  Scammers are also spoofing other streaming services such as Disney+ and Spotify. 
REMEMBER THESE TIPS:
    1. Never click on a link within an email that you weren't expecting, even if the email appears to come from a company or service you recognize.
    2. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.
    3. If you receive an unexpected notification, open your browser and navigate to that platform's official website. There you can log into your account knowing that you're on the platform's real website and not a phony look-alike website.
OTHER SCAMS:
  1. Scammers advertise online that they will extend you a loan or help you improve your credit score. Here's how it works: 
    • You go online and search for a small loan to help you pay some urgent bills or consolidate debt.
    • You are contacted by someone claiming to be from a Bank or Credit Union.  You may be given a phone number to call to get more information on a loan, or they may offer to start loan proceedings right away.
    • You are informed that you can receive a loan.  Or you are told that they can lend you $1,000 but you'll need to bring up your credit score. As part of the plan, the bank will pay off your credit card bill.
    • You are asked to provide (or verify) sensitive information so the 'bank' can pay off your credit card bill.  This could include being asked to provide your credit card number, bank account number, online banking log-in credentials, social security number, etc.
    • The next day you go online and see that your credit card account has received the promised payment.
    • Now that the scammer has gained your trust, you are instructed to go to Target or Walmart or Walgreens and put money on a gift card to cover the original credit card payment and pay the bank back. You are told that this will improve your credit score so the 'bank' can issue you a loan. The caller may even keep you on the phone while you buy the gift card. Once the purchase has been made, you are asked to immediately provide the gift card number and PIN to the caller (via text, verbally, or by sending a picture of the card).
    • The caller tells you that the $1,000 loan funds will appear in your checking or savings account the next day.
    • The funds are never deposited, PLUS the credit card 'payment' that was made the previous day is rejected for non-sufficient funds because it was paid by the scammer with a false account.
    • You are now out the money that you put on the gift card. You still owe the full amount on the credit card. You aren't getting a loan, AND the scammer knows enough sensitive information about you to possibly take more funds from your account or steal your identity to rack up even more debt in your name.
Once you've purchased gift cards and given someone else the gift card numbers there is no way to stop the fraud from happening. Once you've given out your account number or online banking user name and password, the only way to protect yourself from loss of funds is to contact your financial institution to open a new account and close the compromised account.  Never give out your account number or online banking login credentials.


  1. When unemployment increased during the pandemic, scammers took advantage by sending out fake work-from-home opportunities.  These emails typically contained grammar mistakes and offered very little information about who was hiring and what the job required, but they always promised a great paycheck.
    • Once a consumer accepts the 'job' they are eased into it by being asked to perform basic errands, eventually leading up to requests to transfer funds from one account to another.  Typically these are stolen funds and the unsuspecting 'employee' is being used as a money mule.
    • Even though the victims of these scams are unaware of the crime they are committing, they can still face large fines and prison time. Remember:  beware of emails with spelling and grammar errors, never trust unusual job offers, and if something doesn't feel right then it probably isn't.
  2. Emails claiming to come from the CDC (Centers for Disease Control), WHO (World Health Organization) and other reputable organizations, with links to spoof websites. Email subjects would tout the "newest vaccine" or "most up-to-date COVID-19 news", claims of miracle cures, etc.  Scammers were attempting to leverage the trust vested in those spoofed authorities to trick consumers including clicking links or opening attachments containing malware.
  3. Scams related to the upcoming government-issued COVID-19 relief checks.  These phishing scams could come in the form of an email, text, or phone call. The scammers claim that your relief check is ready to electronically deposited as soon as you disclose your account number to the caller, or as soon as you visit a website and enter your account number and other sensitive personal data to "verify" yourself.
  4. Scammers repurposed their go-to phishing emails, texts, or phone calls in the months following the pandemic, preying on consumers who were likely feeling anxious and scared. These included variations of the Grandparent Scam or the Fake Charity Donation scam. 
  5. In some cases the scammers convinced the victims to give out their account number or their online banking login name and password, or both.
  6. In one case the scammers claimed they could make investments for the victim. They coerced the victim to give out the account number and online banking login credentials so the scammers could deposit checks and then transfer money out to make investments.
  7. In another case when the scammers were successful in getting the online banking login user name and password from the victim they used online Bill Pay to write 5 checks between $4,000-$5000.
  8. Scammers reportedly sent victims a fraudulent check to deposit via Mobile Deposit in a mobile app, then the victims disclosed their online banking user name and password and the scammers went into the victim's account and used online Bill Pay to send checks to untraceable payees.
  9. In other cases the scammers convinced the victims that they needed to repay a debt or an erroneous deposit. In one case the victim who was contacted by scammers claiming to be from Amazon. The scammers convinced the victim that Amazon owed the victim money and they needed the victim's online banking login name and password, as well as the account number, to deposit the money directly into the victim's account.  Then the scammers contacted the victim and claimed they erroneously made the deposit too large.  They convinced the victim that the funds needed to be paid back with gift cards purchased at Best Buy. The victim was instructed to call the scammers immediately upon purchasing the gift cards, and then instructed to provide the scammers with the card numbers of the gift cards.
  10. There were cases in which victims received a phone call claiming to be from Law Enforcement or a Hospital.  The callers stated that a grandchild or child of the victim had outstanding debt, had been arrested, or had been in an accident and payment was needed immediately to protect the grandchild or child from harm. In these cases the victims were instructed to purchase gift cards from companies such as Home Depot or Best Buy, then call the scammers immediately with the gift card numbers.
  11. Scammers also spoofed the phone numbers of legitimate service providers, such as cable service or internet service, and called consumers offering alternative services. The victims thought they are talking to their local service provider, but the scammer on the other end of the line had no affiliation with the company whose phone number they were spoofing. The scammer tried to convince victims to send money by promising to improve or expand services in exchange for a 'one-time fee'.
  12. Another scam involved a text message claiming to be coming from a cell phone service provider. The text message looked like a security alert and it warned that you must validate your account by clicking a link, because if you don't validate then your account access will be disabled. If you fell for this alert and clicked on the link, you were brought to a very convincing fake website that looked like a popular cell phone provider's login page. You were instructed to sign into your account to 'validate your account security', but if you entered your credentials on this fake website the scammers gained your login information and they were able to take over your account.
  13. Quickbooks/Payroll Client Scams: Victims receive an email claiming to be sent from the domain payrollservices.intuit.com.  If you have received an email communication that you believe is from Intuit, you may be able to use the information below to determine if it is legitimate. Intuit uses several different email addresses to communicate to its customers:
Payments@intuit.com - This address is used to communicate merchant account changes or notices. Attachments of case details may be included.
      1. PSD_iCareTeam@intuit.com - This address may be used by the merchant services customer care team to communicate information on a case-by-case basis.
      2. BusinessServices@intuit.com - This address is used to communicate approval, user ID, and password reset information from Intuit's secure network.
      3. notification@email.merchancenter.intuit.com - This address is used to provide notifications about your merchant services account.
      4. paymentnotification@email.paymentsolutions.intuit.com - This address is used to notify you of payments and deposits for your merchant services account.
      5. intuit@eq.intuit.com - This address is used to communicate non-critical notifications and updates from Intuit.
 
IRS Scam: A scammer falsely claims to be with the Internal Revenue Service and contacts you via phone or email to demand immediate payment on back taxes they claim you owe. They may threaten legal action, jail time, deportation or revocation of your driver's license.
14. Payday Lender Scam: Scammer calls you attempting to collect on an old Payday Loan from years ago. This is a phishing phone call attempting to scare you into giving out account numbers, etc.
15. Zoom Installer Scam:  Working from home during the Coronavirus pandemic resulted in many consumers downloading Zoom. The increased usage of Zoom resulted in scammers sending out phishing emails with links to download the latest version of Zoom, but when a consumer clicks on the link and goes to a spoof website to download, they are also downloading a remote access trojan (RAT) to their computer. This RAT gives cybercriminals the ability to observe everything you do on your computer: keylogging, recording video calls, and taking screenshots - all of which can be used to steal your sensitive information.  If you need to download an update, don't click on links in an email. Go directly to the official website. 
16. Computer Tech Support Or Computer Takeover Scam: Victim is informed via email or phone that their computer is infected, and the scammer requests remote access to fix the problem. OR, victim receives an email with an attachment or link claiming to contain the latest software upgrade but it is really malware. After remote access is enabled or the attachment is opened, the computer screen goes black. This scam may involve a caller who refuses to give you back control of your own computer unless you give them your debit or credit card number. Giving out your card number to these scammers results in charges to your card in various amounts, and you are liable for these charges and the loss of funds.

17. A variation of the above scam involves a virus infecting your computer and installing a fake message with a government agency seal. The virus locks the screen and claims the computer owner has illegally downloaded something, followed by a demand for money to unlock the computer. A twist to this scam has also involved the scammers taking over your computer's webcam and snapping a photo of you, claiming that they will place the photo on a fake web page.
18. Microsoft Scam: Victim receives an email or a phone call claiming to have an installer attachment that will give PC owners the latest upgrade. If you click on the attachment it may install a ransomware variant, displaying a message that you owner's PC files have been encrypted and will stay that way unless the consumer pays a ransom. If you don't know who has sent an email do not click any links or open attachments.
19. Card Services Scam: A phone call from a local phone number claiming to be card services wants to discuss your rate. Never give out your card number or other information to unsolicited callers.
20. ATM Skimming Devices: ATM Skimmers are card readers installed by fraudsters who tamper with ATM machines. The skimmer reads the data off your card's magnetic strip and stores the data on the skimmer, then the fraudster comes back to retrieve the skimmer.
    • When approaching an ATM, look for signs of tampering: a keyboard that doesn't feel right (too thick or too loose), the appearance of something sticking out of the card reader or something temporarily attached on top of the normal card reader (card reader feels loose, sticky tape residue, etc), a brochure holder that looks out of place (fraudsters have been known to conceal hidden cameras inside fake brochure holders in order to film their victims' PIN entry).
    • If something doesn't seem right about the ATM, walk away and find another ATM. Avoid ATMs in isolated areas, where a thief installing a skimming device would be relatively undetected.
    • Be aware of anyone who appears to be looking over your shoulder. Cover your hand when entering your PIN.
    • There are some scammers who insert a clear plastic "sleeve" or loop inside the card reader. When a cardholder comes along and inserts their card into the slot the card gets stuck. The scammer then comes along, posing as a helpful bystander, an ATM repairman, or even a police investigator. The scammer convinces you to try your PIN while they observe, then they come up with a story that convinces you to leave the card in the machine or leave the card with them for "evidence". Never use your PIN when others are watching, and if you are unable to retrieve your card for any reason please remain at the machine and use a cell phone to call the telephone assistance number listed on the ATM.
    • When entering your PIN, always cover the keypad with your other hand.
    • Ignore the hoax emails and social media posts you may have seen about entering your PIN number backwards if you are in distress at an ATM. This is a myth; ATMs do not have that capability.
21. Escrow Check Scam: This scam involves an unsolicited check showing up in the mail. Always beware of unsolicited cashiers checks you receive from unknown sources, as they almost always fake. You are responsible for the checks you deposit into your account.
22. Chase Card Scam: This scam was an email that referenced a recent credit card payment and encourage you to open a zipped attachment. This email could contain a virus.
23. Utility Company Phone Scam: Callers claiming to be from the local utility company threaten to turn off electricity or natural gas service if they are not paid immediately. Scammers may even manipulate Caller ID to look like they are calling from the utility company.
24. Phishing Email/Fake Website Scam: Scammers are use a website with a logo and design similar to a company or federal organization in a phishing scam, attempting to convince consumers to provide sensitive information or send money.
25. Card Problem Phishing Text/Email: Scammers send a message claiming to be from a bank or credit union. The message claims that there is a problem with your credit card or debit card. Fraudulent notifications of this kind are typically sent out to random lists of phone numbers or emails and the scammers are hoping you will call them back and disclose your credit or debit card number.
26. Grandparent Scam: The grandparent scam has been around for several years. Scammers peruse social networking sites to find out personal information about their target, then use the internet or a stolen cell phone to contact an elderly family member and ask for funds to be wired for bail, emergency medical expenses, etc. This type of scam commonly occurs around the time of Spring Break. Common scenarios can include:
    • A grandparent receives a scam call or email from a "grandchild", often late at night or early in the morning. The caller claiming to be their grandchild urgently explains he/she has gotten into a bad situation (car accident, arrested for drugs, being mugged) and needs money wired immediately. The caller also insists they don't want their parents to be notified.
    • Sometimes a phony 'official' makes the fraudulent call, claiming to be a police officer, lawyer, or hospital doctor or nurse and speaking on behalf of the grandchild, requesting funds be wired.
    • Military families can also be victimized; a con artist will contact a soldier's family and claim that a problem has come up during military leave that requires money to be wired.
    • Older consumers are urged to be aware of this type of scam, and resist the pressure to act quickly. If you receive this call, try to contact your grandchild or another family member to determine whether or not the call is legitimate. Be aware that if Facebook privacy settings aren't high enough scammers can often get access to personal information that a grandparent might use to verify their grandchild's identity, including the name of a childhood pet, a nickname, siblings' names, home address or the college they attend, etc. Never wire money based on a request made over the phone or in an email.
    • Younger consumers can help prevent grandparents from becoming victims to this scam by increasing privacy settings on social networking sites, leaving several contact numbers to allow family to check in should there be some concern, and password-protecting smartphones.
27. Phishing phone calls or emails asking you to confirm account numbers or other personal information. These scams try to create a sense of urgency by claiming that there is a problem with your payroll, debit or credit card, tax return, automatic payment, etc.
28. Smishing: Fake text messages blasted to every cell phone within one area
29. Fake Smartphone Apps
30. Free Trial Scams
31. Fake charity or holiday-related websites
32. Fake delivery invoices
33. Fake Facebook "New Friend Request" messages/emails
34. Holiday e-cards laden with computer viruses
35. Job-related email scams
36. Online Romance scams
37. Auction site fraud: You list an item for sale and buyer attempts to grossly overpay by sending you a large cashiers check and asking you to keep a portion and wire the remaining funds to someone else
38. Password theft [Change your passwords frequently!]
39. E-mail scams asking for verification of personal info (phishing, vishing, smishing, etc.)


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