Scam Alerts

At Choice One, we are committed to keeping our members informed and protected against the ever-evolving tactics of fraudsters. As technology advances, so do the methods used by scammers to deceive unsuspecting individuals. It is essential to stay updated and vigilant to safeguard your personal and financial information.

Here are some of the latest scams you should be aware of:

Phishing Scams

Phishing is a deceptive technique used by fraudsters to trick individuals into revealing sensitive information such as usernames, passwords, or financial details. Scammers often send fraudulent emails or text messages posing as reputable organizations, enticing recipients to click on malicious links or provide personal information. Remember, Choice One will never reach out to request sensitive information. If you do receive a suspicious call, email, or text, hang up, refrain from clicking on any links, and reach out to us directly through trusted channels to report the incident.

Smishing Scams

Similar to phishing scams, smishing scams involve fraudulent text messages sent to individuals’ mobile phones. These messages often contain urgent requests or enticing offers, encouraging recipients to click on malicious links or provide personal information. Be cautious of any unexpected or suspicious texts, especially those requesting personal information. Click here to read our recent blog post featuring tips to avoid text scams.

Vishing Scams

Vishing, short for voice phishing, is a scam where fraudsters make phone calls impersonating legitimate organizations, such as banks or government agencies. They use various tactics to trick individuals into revealing sensitive information or making unauthorized transactions. Remember, if someone calls claiming to be from Choice One and asks for personal or financial information, hang up and call our official phone number to verify the request.

Social Engineering Scams

Social engineering scams involve manipulating individuals into divulging confidential information through psychological manipulation. Fraudsters may pretend to be trustworthy individuals, such as a friend, family member, or even a colleague, to gain access to personal or financial data. Be cautious when sharing sensitive information, even with people you know, and always verify requests through alternative means of communication.

Investment and Money Transfer Scams

Scammers often lure individuals with promises of high returns on investments or lucrative money transfer opportunities. They may use fake investment schemes, pyramid schemes, or fraudulent job offers to exploit unsuspecting victims. Exercise caution when presented with such opportunities and always research and verify before making any financial commitments. Remember, if something seems to good to be true, it usually is.

Tech Support Scams

Tech support scams involve fraudsters posing as tech support representatives from reputable companies, claiming that there is an issue with your computer or device. They may ask for remote access to your device, install malware, or request payment for unnecessary services. Remember, legitimate companies will never contact you unsolicited to offer tech support. If in doubt, contact the company directly using official contact information.

“Act Now” Scams

“Act Now” scams refer to deceptive tactics used by fraudsters to pressure individuals into making immediate decisions or taking swift actions. These scams often exploit a sense of urgency, fear, or greed to manipulate victims into providing personal or financial information, making payments, or engaging in other actions that benefit the scammers. Common examples include fake lottery winnings, bogus investment opportunities, or phony emergency situations requiring immediate financial assistance. The scammers emphasize the need for quick action, creating a sense of panic, and preventing victims from carefully considering the legitimacy of the offer. It is important to exercise caution and skepticism when confronted with such requests and to verify the authenticity of any claims before taking any action.

In Conclusion

These are just a few examples of the latest scams used by fraudsters. It is crucial to stay informed, remain vigilant, and protect yourself against these fraudulent activities. At Choice One, we have robust security measures in place to protect our members, but your awareness and proactive approach are equally important.

If you ever encounter suspicious activity or believe you have fallen victim to a scam, contact Choice One Community Credit Union immediately. Our dedicated fraud prevention team is here to assist you in resolving any issues and safeguarding your financial well-being.

Remember, knowledge is power when it comes to fraud prevention. Stay informed, stay vigilant, and together, we can combat scams and protect your financial future. Click here to learn more about Choice Alert, a proactive credit and debit card account monitoring tool that empowers members to establish diverse controls and notifications.

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