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Think Before You Act: Recognize the Signs of a Scam6/1/2026

Think Before You Act: Recognize the Signs of a Scam

 

Scammers are becoming more sophisticated every year - and unfortunately, fraud attempts are no longer limited to suspicious emails or obvious phone calls. Today’s scams are designed to look real, feel urgent, and catch people off guard.

From fake fraud alerts and package delivery texts to impersonation phone calls and AI-generated voice scams, fraudsters are constantly finding new ways to steal personal and financial information.

The good news? Awareness is one of the best ways to protect yourself.

At FinancialEdge Credit Union, we’re committed to helping members stay informed and secure. That’s why we created our dedicated Fraud & Scam Resource Center, where you can find the latest scam alerts, fraud prevention tips, and steps to take if you suspect suspicious activity on your account.

CLICK HERE TO CHECK IT OUT

 

Common Scams Happening Right Now

While scams continue to evolve, many fraud attempts follow similar patterns. Here are a few common scams we’re seeing more frequently:

 

Fake Fraud Alert Texts

Scammers often send text messages pretending to be from your bank or credit union. These messages may claim there’s suspicious activity on your account and ask you to click a link or verify your information.

These texts can look convincing, but clicking the link may lead to a fake website designed to steal your login credentials.

 

Red Flag: Messages that create urgency and ask for account information or security codes.


Phone Spoofing Scams

Fraudsters can manipulate caller ID technology to make it appear as though your financial institution is calling you directly.

They may ask you to:

  • Verify account information
  • Provide online banking credentials
  • Share one-time passcodes
  • Transfer money to a “safe account”
  • Wire money to an individual or fake organization

Remember: legitimate financial institutions will never ask for sensitive login information over the phone.


Package Delivery Scams

Have you received a text saying there’s a problem with a delivery? These scams often include fake tracking links that install malware or collect personal information.

Because online shopping is so common, these messages can easily catch people off guard, and create a sense of urgency.

When tracking a package, make sure to never click on a link sent via text, and go through the carrier's trusted website.


Vacation Rental Scams

Summer travel season often brings an increase in fake vacation listings and booking scams. Fraudsters create fake rental properties or impersonate legitimate listings to collect deposits from travelers.

Before sending money:

  • Verify listings through trusted platforms such as Airbnb or VRBO
  • Research the property and look at reviews
  • Avoid wire transfers or unusual payment methods

AI Voice Impersonation Scams

Artificial intelligence is making scams even more convincing. Some fraudsters now use AI-generated voices to impersonate family members, coworkers, or trusted organizations that sounds exactly like the individual you may know.

You may receive a call that sounds like someone you know asking for urgent financial help, so if something feels suspicious:

  • Hang up immediately without giving out any of your personal information
  • Contact the person that may be impersonated directly using a trusted and known number, and if they don’t answer call someone close to them such as their wife, husband, mother, father, kids, etc.
  • Never act solely on emotion or urgency

Warning Signs That a Message May Be a Scam

Scammers rely on panic, urgency, and confusion. Knowing the warning signs can help you pause before reacting.

Be cautious if a message:

  • Demands immediate action
  • Threatens account suspension or legal action
  • An online relationship with someone who is asking for money
  • Requests passwords or security codes
  • Includes suspicious links
  • Asks for payment through gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers
  • Contains spelling or grammar errors
  • Feels “off” or unusually aggressive

Important Reminder

  • FinancialEdge Credit Union will never ask for your online banking password, verification codes, or full debit card PIN through phone calls, emails, or text messages.

How to Protect Yourself From Fraud

  • While scams are becoming more advanced, a few simple habits can greatly reduce your risk.

Verify Requests Independently

  • If you receive a suspicious call, text, or email claiming to be from your financial institution, contact the organization directly using a trusted phone number or website.

Avoid Clicking Unknown Links

  • Never click links in unexpected messages. Instead, type the website address directly into your browser.

Monitor Your Account Transactions Regularly

  • Review your account activity frequently and report suspicious transactions immediately.

Enable Account Alerts

  • Account alerts can help you quickly identify unauthorized activity. You can also turn your cards on and off through Card Controls when not in use.

Use Strong Passwords

  • Create unique passwords for your financial accounts and enable multi-factor authentication whenever possible.

 

For additional fraud prevention resources and current scam alerts, visit our Fraud & Scam Resource Center here:

www.finedgecu.org/Scam


What To Do If You Think You’ve Been Scammed

If you believe your information has been compromised, taking quick action is important.

1. Contact Us Immediately

Notify your financial institution as soon as possible if you notice suspicious activity.

2. Change Your Passwords

Update passwords for online banking, email, and other important accounts.

3. Monitor Your Account Transactions

Continue reviewing your transactions and credit reports for unusual activity.

4. Freeze or Replace Cards if Needed

If your debit or credit card information may have been compromised, request a replacement card immediately.

5. Report Fraud

Document suspicious calls, texts, or emails and report them to the appropriate authorities.

Our Fraud & Scam Resource Center includes additional steps, security tips, common types of scams for you to familiarize yourself with, and resources to help protect you and your accounts.

Visit Our Scam and Fraud Page

 

Stay Alert and Stay Protected

Scammers are constantly changing their tactics, but staying informed can make all the difference. Taking a moment to slow down, verify information, and recognize warning signs can help protect your personal and financial information.

At FinancialEdge Credit Union your security is important to us. We’re here to help you stay informed and protected every step of the way.

Visit our Fraud & Scam Resource Center to learn more about current scams, fraud prevention tips, and account security resources.

Visit Our Scam and Fraud Page



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