How to Avoid Scammers - A Guide for Protecting Your Finances

Scammers and fraudsters are constantly looking for new ways to con individuals out of their money. By being aware of the latest tactics scammers use, you can protect yourself from falling victim to their schemes.

Spoofing Scams

Spoofing scams involve fraudsters posing as legitimate organizations, such as South Carolina Federal Credit Union. They often use technology to manipulate caller ID information to make their calls seem more trustworthy. To avoid falling for spoofing scams:

• Verify Identity: Always ask for specific identification details from the caller before providing any personal information. For example, ask about something only they would know, or about the last transaction you made with that business.
• Call Back: Don't hesitate to hang up and call the official number of the organization to confirm the legitimacy of the call.
• Report Suspicious Calls: Inform the organization being impersonated if you receive a suspicious call.

Toll Text Scams

Toll text scams involve receiving messages claiming you owe money for a toll fee and providing a link for payment. These links often lead to phishing websites designed to steal your personal and financial information. Protect yourself from toll text scams:

• Don't Click Links: Avoid clicking on any links in text messages if you're not certain about the legitimacy of the sender.
• Pause and Consider: Have you been on any toll roads recently? If not, it's probably a scam. Verify the sender's details and look for any signs of suspicious or unusual behavior. Be wary of any messages designed to incite fear or a quick response.
• Delete Suspicious Messages: Delete any messages that appear suspicious and block the number.

Card Skimmers

Card skimmers are fraudulent devices placed on ATMs or point of sale terminals to steal your card information. To avoid card skimmers:

• Tap Instead of Insert: When possible, use contactless payment methods or tap your card instead of inserting it to minimize exposure to skimming devices.
• Check for Tampering: Before using an ATM or card reader, inspect the device for any signs of tampering such as loose parts or unusual attachments.
• Cover Your PIN: Always cover the keypad when entering your PIN to prevent potential pinhole cameras from capturing your information.

In addition to the specific examples mentioned above, here are some general tips to safeguard your finances from fraud:

• Trust Your Instincts: If something seems too good to be true or raises suspicion, it's best to err on the side of caution and verify before proceeding.
• Protect Personal Information: Never share sensitive details like passwords, social security numbers, security codes, or account information over the phone, or by email or text.
• Stay Informed: Be aware of the latest scam tactics in South Carolina.

By being vigilant, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to scammers. Remember to stay informed, protect your personal information, and trust your instincts when dealing with any financial transactions to avoid becoming the next target of a scam.