Back-to-school shopping brings great deals—but also an increase in fake websites, misleading ads, and fraudulent online stores. Before making a purchase, shop with trusted retailers, verify website addresses, and be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true.
Ticket scams often target people looking for concerts, festivals, and sporting events. Scammers sell fake or counterfeit tickets through social media, online marketplaces, or fraudulent websites. Buy from trusted sources, use a credit card when possible, and be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true.
QR code scams, also known as "quishing," trick people into scanning codes that lead to fake websites designed to steal personal and financial information. Scammers hide these QR codes in emails, texts, public places, and even unsolicited packages. Before you scan, verify the source and check the website before entering any sensitive information.
Public Wi-Fi may be convenient, but it isn't always secure. Hackers can use unsecured or fake networks to steal personal and financial information. When traveling, avoid banking on public Wi-Fi and use your cellular data or a trusted hotspot instead.
Money mule scams trick people into moving stolen money through their personal bank accounts. Criminals often disguise these schemes as job opportunities, online relationships, or requests to help transfer funds. If someone asks you to receive money and send it elsewhere, it's a major red flag.
Vacation and travel scams often use fake booking websites, unrealistic deals, or spoofed customer service numbers to steal your money and personal information. Scammers pressure travelers to book quickly or pay outside trusted platforms. Always verify listings, use official travel websites, and avoid unusual payment methods when planning your trip.
Fake bank impersonation calls are designed to sound legitimate, often spoofing real bank phone numbers to gain your trust. Scammers may claim there’s fraud on your account and pressure you to share security codes, passwords, or move money. Always hang up and call your bank directly using a trusted number before taking any action.
Fake websites are designed to look like real banks or businesses, tricking you into entering your login or payment information. These sites are often reached through links in emails, texts, or ads. Always double-check the website URL and go directly to official sites instead of clicking unexpected links.
Tax refund scams increase after filing season, with fake messages claiming there’s an issue or asking you to verify your refund. These often include harmful links to steal your information. Always check your status through official sites and avoid unexpected messages.
Check washing and mail theft scams rise during tax season as more payments are sent by mail. Criminals steal checks, erase the ink, and rewrite them for larger amounts or new payees. By the time it’s caught, the money is often already gone, making it important to send checks securely and monitor your accounts closely.
PPP loan scams are targeting business owners by using real borrower information to pose as bank representatives. Scammers call from spoofed numbers that appear legitimate and claim they need to verify your account or assist with your loan. Their goal is to gain access to your banking credentials and security codes to take over your account.
ATM “jackpotting” attacks target the machine — not your personal account. Criminals use tampering and malware to force ATMs to dispense cash illegally. If an ATM looks damaged or suspicious, don’t use it and report it to the bank immediately.
Romance scams often begin with steady messages and emotional connection before shifting to financial requests. When someone you’ve only met online asks for money, gift cards, crypto, or wire transfers, it’s a major red flag. Slowing down, talking to someone you trust, and contacting your bank if funds were sent can help protect both your heart and your wallet.
A new year is the perfect time to reset your passwords and strengthen login security. Updating weak or reused passwords and turning on extra protections like two-factor authentication can help stop unauthorized access before it starts and keep your accounts safer all year long.
A new year is a great time to review your accounts and tighten security. Check transactions, alerts, passwords, and beneficiaries to catch issues early. Small updates now can help protect your money and give you peace of mind all year long.
