In today’s digital world, protecting your personal information is just as important as locking your front door. Scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated, using social engineering tactics to manipulate trust and steal from individuals. The best defense? Awareness. One of the most popular scams scammers use for their victims is known as the Imposter Scam.
Imposter scams are on the rise and they’re getting more sophisticated. In these schemes, fraudsters pose as trusted sources like your financial institution, the IRS, Medicare, or even well-known charities. Their goal? To trick you into handing over personal details or sending money under false pretenses.
They often create a false sense of urgency, saying you owe money, your account is compromised, or you’re missing out on a refund or benefit. These scammers may “spoof” phone numbers or email addresses to make their messages look official.
If you're ever asked to send payment through wire transfers, or apps like Zelle or Venmo, stop and pause to process. Legitimate organizations will NEVER request payment through these methods or pressure you to act immediately.
When scams like these succeed, it not only affects the victim, but also the financial institution as well. Fraud cases increase operational costs for financial institutions, slow down service response times, and can erode the trust that members like you place in your credit union or bank. Ultimately, that can impact everything from fraud prevention efforts to the rates and services offered to members.
Protect yourself and your community by staying alert and sharing this information with colleagues and family members. If something feels off, it probably is. Always verify before you act. Not only are imposter scams on the rise, but scammers are also using other types of scams to deceive victims. Below is a list of scams to be mindful of.
1. The Pay Yourself Scam
You might get a fake fraud alert claiming your account is compromised. Then, a scammer posing as a bank rep urges you to "protect" your funds by transferring money to yourself or others.
Red Flag: Your bank will never ask you to transfer money to verify your identity or prevent fraud.
2. Grandparent Scams
A caller claims your grandchild or relative is in danger or jail and urgently needs money.
Red Flag: These emotional pleas are designed to panic you. Always verify with another family member or contact law enforcement when in doubt.
3. Debt Relief Scams
Some scammers promise to eliminate your debt, for a hefty upfront fee.
Red Flag: Real lenders never ask for large payments before helping you. Fees are typically deducted after loan approval.
4. Government Impersonation Scams
These fraudsters pose as officials from the IRS or Social Security, threatening arrest or legal action unless you pay immediately over the phone.
Red Flag: Government agencies NEVER demand payment over the phone or via gift cards. Initial contact always comes by mail.
5. The "Urgency" Scam
You receive a limited-time offer or urgent alert asking you to confirm your account or claim a prize.
Red Flag: Scammers use countdowns and pressure tactics to make you act without thinking. Don’t click. Pause and verify.
6. Utility Company Scams
You’re told your electricity, or water will be shut off unless you pay instantly.
Red Flag: Real utility providers send notices and won’t demand same-day payment by phone or email.
Stay One Step Ahead
Scammers rely on fear and urgency. The moment something feels off, pause and verify the source independently. When in doubt, call the organization directly. Learn more about current scams and how to protect yourself from them at ecentralcu.org.
As an employee of Northeast Valley Healthcare Corporation (NEVHC), you are eligible to join E-Central Credit Union, one of your employee benefits. Whether you want to learn more about your savings options or the best way to consolidate or refinance high-interest-rate debt, reach out to E-Central. Contact Sandra Mejia, NEVHC’s dedicated business relationship manager. She can be reached at 626.799.6000 ext. 1644 or
[email protected].