Stop and Verify: How the FBI’s “Take a Beat” Campaign Helps Prevent Fraud

At a time when scams and fraud tactics are becoming increasingly sophisticated, pausing and evaluating can be the critical difference in preventing you from falling victim to fraud. Recognizing the need for public awareness, the FBI launched the “Take a Beat“ campaign, encouraging individuals to be cautious and verify information before responding to potentially fraudulent requests. Let’s review what you should verify and why this campaign is necessary in today’s digital age.

The Rise of Fraud in a Digital World

Scammers now use technology and psychological tactics to exploit individuals of all ages. From phishing emails and social engineering scams to fake investment schemes and imposter fraud, the tactics are designed to catch victims off-guard. According to the Federal Trade Commission a reported $10 billion was lost to fraud last year—a stark reminder of the ever-present threat of scams.

The “Take a Beat” campaign encourages people to slow down, evaluate the situation, and “verify the authenticity of requests.  

Why “Taking a Beat” Works

Scammers often rely on a sense of urgency or fear to cloud judgment. Whether it’s a fraudulent call claiming that your account has been compromised or a message announcing that you’ve won a lottery, the emotional response these tactics cause can impair rational thinking. By consciously taking a moment to stop and verify, you give yourself the opportunity to:

1. Regain Control – Pausing helps to step back from emotion and approach the situation logically.
2. Identify Red Flags – Taking a breath allows you to notice inconsistencies or unusual details that may indicate a scam.

When in Doubt, Verify to Prevent Fraud

Taking time to independently confirm the legitimacy of the request can prevent impulsive actions. Verify the following before responding to any unsolicited request.

Caller Identity

• Scenario: You receive a call claiming to be from a government agency, credit union, or utility company demanding immediate action.
• Action: Ask for the caller’s name, department, and phone number. Hang up and contact the organization directly using an official number found on their website.

Email Authenticity

• Scenario: An email appears to be from a trusted source. The caller asks you to click a link or provide sensitive information.
• Action: Carefully inspect the sender’s email address. Look for typos or mismatched domains and never click on links or download attachments without verifying their authenticity.

Urgent Financial Requests

• Scenario: A friend or family member claims to be in an emergency situation and urgently needs money.
• Action: Call the individual directly to confirm their situation. Scammers often pose as loved ones using hacked accounts or spoofed phone numbers.

Unsolicited Prize Notifications

• Scenario: You’re informed that you’ve won a contest or lottery you didn’t enter, and you must pay a fee to claim the prize.
• Action: Remember, legitimate organizations don’t require payment for prizes. Verify the legitimacy of the contest through official channels before acting.

Investment Opportunities

• Scenario: You’re offered a high-return investment opportunity with little risk.
• Action: Research the company or individual thoroughly. Consult trusted financial advisors and verify licenses with regulatory bodies.

Social Media Messaging Requests

• Scenario: You receive a message from a social media contact asking for personal information or money.
• Action: Confirm the request offline. Hacked accounts are commonly used to perpetrate fraud.

Steps to Take When Verifying

1. Use Official Channels: Always use contact information from official sources, such as a company’s website or a government agency’s directory.
2. Involve Trusted Parties: If unsure, consult a family member, friend, or professional for a second opinion.
3. Search Online: Look up the details of the request or companies involved. Others may have encountered similar scams.
4. Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, act with caution.

The Role of Public Awareness

The “Take a Beat” campaign highlights the importance of public education in fighting fraud. Choice One Credit Union aims to empower individuals with the knowledge and tools needed to protect themselves. This includes our ChoiceWords Blog  and our Scam Alerts page, both of which provide information on the latest scams and tips for protecting yourself.  The message is clear: slowing down and educating yourself can save you from significant financial and emotional harm.