Beware of Spooky Scams: Staying Safe from Fraud This Fall

As Halloween approaches, there’s plenty to be on the lookout for—from spooky decorations to surprise costume changes. But one thing you don’t want to encounter this season? Scams lurking in the shadows! Fall can bring an uptick in fraud attempts, as scammers prey on people who are busy, distracted, or simply not expecting it. At Roswell Credit Union, we want to ensure you’re equipped to spot and avoid the tricks that fraudsters may try to pull.

Here are some common scams to watch out for and tips to keep your accounts safe.

1. Phishing Schemes: Trick or Treat…or Fraud?

Phishing attempts are a year-round scam, but they often surge during busy seasons. Phishing is when scammers send fake emails or text messages that appear to be from trusted sources (such as banks, government agencies, or even retailers). These messages typically contain links that ask you to log in or provide personal information.

How to Stay Safe:

  • Never click on links or download attachments from unknown senders.

  • If an email or text seems suspicious, don’t respond. Instead, contact the organization directly using a verified phone number or website.

  • Look for common phishing red flags, like poor grammar, urgent language ("Act Now!"), and misspelled names or email addresses.

2. Charity Fraud: When Generosity is Targeted

With the holiday season around the corner, many people are thinking about giving back. Unfortunately, fraudsters know this and may pose as charitable organizations. They create fake charities or websites, asking for donations that ultimately end up in their pockets.

How to Stay Safe:

  • Research any charity before you donate. Verify their information through websites like Charity Navigator or the Better Business Bureau.

  • Avoid donating to charities that pressure you for “immediate” donations.

  • Use secure payment methods, such as credit or debit cards, rather than wiring money or using prepaid gift cards.

3. Online Shopping Scams: Beware of Too-Good-to-Be-True Deals

October also kicks off the holiday shopping season, and you may see more online ads and “special deals” popping up. Scammers create fake e-commerce websites that offer items at irresistible prices but never deliver the goods.

How to Stay Safe:

  • Stick to reputable websites and check for secure “https” in the URL before making a purchase.

  • Be cautious if an online store only allows payments through methods like gift cards or wire transfers.

  • Read reviews on third-party websites if you’re unfamiliar with a seller. A lack of online presence or an excessive number of 5-star reviews can be a red flag.

4. Fake Tech Support: Ghostly Help Isn’t Real Help

Tech support scams are especially common as people spend more time online. Scammers might call or send a pop-up message saying your computer has a virus and ask you to pay for “support” or provide remote access to fix it.

How to Stay Safe:

  • If you get an unsolicited call or message about tech support, ignore it. Major companies, like Microsoft or Apple, do not proactively reach out about viruses.

  • Never give remote access to someone you didn’t contact first.

  • If you believe your computer has an issue, contact a known and trusted tech support provider.

5. Fake Job Offers: Not Every Opportunity is Real

Scammers might also target people looking for extra income through fake job offers. They often require upfront payments for “training” or ask for personal information under the guise of “employment paperwork.”

How to Stay Safe:

  • Research any company that offers you a position, especially if you didn’t apply.

  • Be cautious if you’re asked to provide sensitive information (like Social Security numbers or banking info) too quickly.

  • Avoid any “job” that requires you to send money or pay a fee before starting.

Keeping Your Roswell Credit Union Accounts Safe

Roswell Credit Union is here to help you protect your finances. Here’s how you can add an extra layer of security to your accounts this fall:

  • Use Our Account Alerts: Set up notifications for transactions, so you can monitor any unusual activity in real time.

  • Enable Two-Factor Authentication: This adds an extra verification step to your account logins, making it harder for scammers to gain access.

  • Report Suspicious Activity: If you notice anything unusual in your account, contact us right away. We’re here to help ensure your money and personal information stay safe.

This fall, don’t let fraudsters catch you by surprise! With these tips, you can stay one step ahead and keep your accounts secure. If you have any questions or need assistance setting up security features, feel free to reach out to our team at Roswell Credit Union. We’re committed to helping you bank with peace of mind, now and all year round.

Stay safe and enjoy the season!

Sara Rochelle