Avoiding Scams
In this digital age, it’s easier than ever to fall prey to cunning online scams, and it can happen to anyone. Fortunately, there are a few steps you can take to be sure you’re well-prepared to safeguard your finances and personal information. Here are a few practical tips to avoid scams and make it incredibly tough for scammers to target you.
Use Unique PINs and Passwords
You might think it’s convenient to use the same PIN or password for everything, but that’s exactly what scammers hope for. If they crack one code, they’ll have access to your entire digital life. Make them unique and diverse – no part of your name, birthday, or address should be in there. Scammers usually start with easily accessible personal info, so don’t make it easy for them.
Beware of Suspicious Links
Don’t click on links unless you’re 100% certain of their legitimacy. Even if it seems to come from someone you know, it could contain malware. Keep an eye out for misspelled words and unusual email addresses, as scammers are clever but not always the best spellers.
Recognize Phishing Attempts
Scammers are crafty at making emails and texts appear genuine. It’s called phishing, and it’s not the relaxing kind of fishing with a lake. In a phishing scam, fraudsters are trying to lure you in. Here are some golden rules to follow:
- Scott Credit Union will never call or email you asking for your personal info. If something feels off, hang up and call them directly, so you know who you’re talking to.
- Don’t click on unexpected links from unknown sources.
- If an offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is. You didn’t win a lottery you never entered, and you haven’t magically inherited a fortune. There are no unbelievable deals for the cost of shipping. Stay skeptical.
Stay Informed on the Latest Scams
Scammers are always coming up with new tricks. Since you probably have a screen in front of you or in your hand, invest a few minutes in staying updated on the latest scams. Knowledge is your best defense.
Educate Others
Don’t keep this knowledge to yourself. Scammers know how to target different age groups, so be sure to share these tips with your friends and family. It’s a team effort to avoid scams in the digital world.
At Scott Credit Union, your financial safety is our priority. We’re here to help you avoid falling victim to scams and protect what matters most. Check out our security videos on YouTube to discover how you can better protect yourself from scammers and other types of fraud.
