🚨 Recognize the Signs of Fraud
Fraud can happen to anyone. Scammers are clever, persistent, and often target people by creating a false sense of urgency or trust. If you’ve experienced any of the following situations, pause before proceeding—you could be the target of a scam.
Common Red Flags to Watch For
- You’re told to lie. Has someone instructed you to keep a transaction secret, lie to bank staff, or provide a false reason for your withdrawal?
⚠️ No legitimate business or agency will ask you to lie to your bank. - Remote access to your device. Did someone ask to connect to your computer or phone to “fix a virus” or provide tech support?
⚠️ This is a common scam tactic to access your personal information. - Unusual cash or wire requests. Have you been told to:
- Withdraw cash or send a wire as part of a “criminal investigation”?
- Convert money to cryptocurrency like Bitcoin?
- Purchase gift cards for any reason?
- Ship cash inside a magazine, book, or package?
- Suspicious online transactions. Have you:
- Sold something and received a check for more than the sale price, with a request to refund the difference?
- Been asked to deposit money or a check into your account for someone else?
- Received payment for being a “secret shopper” or from a work-from-home job that sounds too good to be true?
- Requests from strangers or online relationships. Have you:
- Been asked for money by someone you’ve never met in person?
- Met someone on a dating site or social media who now needs financial help?
- Been contacted by someone overseas asking for assistance?
- Family emergencies or impersonation. Have you received:
- An urgent call or message claiming to be from a family member in trouble (like a grandchild needing bail)?
- A request from a “friend” over social media for money—without a phone or in-person conversation to confirm?
- Government or law enforcement imposters. Has someone claimed to be from:
- The IRS, FBI, police, or another government agency?
- A bank regulator or law enforcement official asking for help with an investigation?
⚠️ These agencies will never demand immediate payments or ask you to wire money, buy gift cards, or provide sensitive information over the phone.
Pressure to Give Up Control?
Are you being pressured to:
- Give someone access to your funds or personal information?
- Make someone a joint account holder or assign power of attorney?
- Transfer the title of your home or property?
Take a step back and talk to us first. We’re here to help protect you and your financial wellbeing.
💬 What To Do If You Suspect a Scam
- Stop the conversation. Don’t respond or send money.
- Do not share personal information. Especially banking details, SSN, or device access.
- Contact us immediately. Speak with a bank representative you trust.
- Report the incident. File a report with local law enforcement or the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
🛡️ We're Here to Help
Fraud can be confusing and scary—but you’re not alone. Whether you’re unsure about a transaction or worried you’ve already shared information, contact us right away. We’re here to help you understand what’s happening and take steps to protect your account.