Protect Yourself Against Fraud
Fraud and scams are more common than ever, and anyone can be a target. Criminals use phone calls, emails, texts, letters and fake websites to try to steal your personal and financial information, and these fraudsters can be very convincing.
One of the most important rules is simple: never share your personal information with someone who contacts you unexpectedly.
Scammers often pretend to be from a financial institution, government agency, or other trusted company. They may try to scare you by saying your account is at risk or that you owe money. Don’t fall for it. Legitimate organizations will never ask for your password, PIN, or full account details through unsolicited phone calls or messages, and they will never try to push you into giving information, making sudden payments, or doing anything else that makes you uncomfortable.
More Tips to Stay Safe
- Ignore unexpected requests for personal information
Never share your account details, passwords or PINs with anyone who contacts you out of the blue. Somerville’s Credit Union and legitimate companies will never ask for this information through calls, emails or texts. - Watch out for phishing messages
Be cautious of emails or texts asking you to click links or fill out forms. These messages may look real but are designed to steal your information. - Don’t click suspicious links
Avoid clicking links from unknown senders or messages that seem unusual, even if they appear to come from someone you know. If you’re not sure, reach out to the sender in another way to confirm if the message is legitimate. - Don’t get caught up in the moment
Scammers try to play on your emotions and make you act quickly before you can think. Watch out for conversations that make you feel pressured or scared – no legitimate company would do this. - Make sure you use the official number
Scammers can spoof phone numbers to make it look like a call is coming from a trusted company. The best way to know for sure that you’re speaking with the actual company is to hang up and call the phone number listed on their official website. - Keep your devices and passwords secure
Update your software regularly, use antivirus protection, and create strong, unique passwords. Never share your passwords with anyone. - Use secure websites and log out properly
Make sure websites start with “https://” before entering sensitive information. Always log out and close your browser when finished. - Stay aware of your surroundings
When accessing your accounts, make sure no one can see your screen or personal information, especially in public places. - Do your research
Scammers can make fake company websites and social media profiles look convincing. Before interacting, take time to check them out. Look at official business listings, verify their address, find when their accounts were created, and search for reviews and any official documents to confirm they are who they claim to be.
Common Scams to Watch Out For
- Fake check or overpayment scams
Someone sends you a check for more than expected and asks you to send money back. The check later turns out to be fake. Never send money to someone who overpays you. - Cryptocurrency investment scams
A stranger may build trust with you online and then encourage you to invest in a “guaranteed” crypto opportunity. These offers are often fake. Be cautious of anyone promising quick or easy profits. - Phishing scams
Fraudsters send emails or texts that look like they’re from a trusted company. They try to get you to click links or share personal information. Always verify messages before responding. - Debt collection scams
Scammers may contact you claiming you owe money. They often use threats to scare you into paying. Always ask for proof and confirm the debt before taking action. - Romance (sweetheart) scams
A scammer builds an online relationship and gains your trust before asking for money. Never send money to someone you haven’t met in person. - Employment scams
Fake job offers may ask you to deposit a check and send money back, or share personal information. Always research companies and avoid offers that seem too good to be true. - Family or emergency scams
Someone pretends to be a relative in trouble and asks for urgent financial help. Always verify the situation by contacting the person directly.
Staying alert and informed is the best way to protect yourself. If you receive a suspicious message, think you may have been scammed, or want more information on how to stay safe, contact our team. We’re here to help you protect your accounts and your peace of mind.
