Scammers have gotten very creative and have come up with many ways to try to scam you and get access to your money. Scams include emails, phone calls, texts and now even bad QR codes. You may think this could never happen to you, but what if it does? What would you do?
Kansas City Credit Union is here to keep you informed, letting you know what you can do today to keep your information safe, how to spot a scam, and what do to if you become the victim of a scam.
Tips for Keeping Your Information Safe
- Keep your contact information up-to-date
- Create strong, unique and not easily guessed passwords
- Run security and system updates on all devices
- Enable biometrics
- Know the typical red flags (see below)
- Know who has access to your accounts
According to the FTC — There are Four Signs It’s a Scam
- Scammers pretend to be from an organization that you know
- Scammers often pretend to be from the government or a business you are familiar with. They even use names like the Social Security Administration, IRS or your local utility company. They can change the name of your caller ID to seem real. If these places call you, be skeptical about giving them information over the phone.
- Scammers say there is a problem or a prize
- Scammers often say you owe money, are in trouble with the government or have won a prize, but need to pay a fee to receive your prize.
- Scammers pressure you to act immediately
- Scammers want you to act quickly before you have time to think about what they are asking for, and may even threaten you if you don’t act quickly.
- Scammers tell you to pay in a specific way
- Scammers sometimes ask you to send through money transfers, put money on gift cards, or someone will send you a fake check, ask you to deposit it, and then give them the money.
What Can You Do to Avoid a Scam?
- Block unwanted calls and texts.
- If you weren’t expecting to give someone your personal information, then don’t.
- Resist the pressure to act quickly – take your time and think twice before handing over your information.
- Stop and talk to someone you trust before giving out any information.
If you think you have encountered or been a victim of a suspected scam, please report it to the FTC, Kansas City Credit Union, or your bank, along with any friends and family who may have been contacted as well.
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