Fraud Prevention Tips

Contact a friend or someone you know

Before sharing information or sending money, make sure you know the person you are sending money to. If you are in doubt, contact a friend or a relative. Scammers want you to make decisions in a hurry. Slow down, and ask questions.

Subscribe to or consult official resources

Be informed and aware of the most common types of scams. Educate yourself to protect yourself. Review our Consumer Resources section for additional information.

Don’t trust your caller ID

Scammers take advantage of technology to falsify caller IDs Be alert for any unusual behavior, and do not provide information to anyone you do not know. Do not answer or provide information in response to any unusual requests.

Do online research

Type a company or product name into your favorite search engine with words like “review,” “complaint” or “scam.” Or search for a phrase that describes your situation, like “IRS call.” You can even search for phone numbers to see if other people have reported them as scams.

Learn how to spot imposters

Scammers often pretend to be someone you trust, like a family member, a charity organization, or a company you do business with. Don’t send money or provide personal information in response to an unexpected or unusual request, whether it comes as a text, a phone call, or an email.

Don’t wire money after a check deposit

Banks are required to make funds from deposited checks available within days, but uncovering a fake check can take weeks. If a check you deposit turns out to be fake, you’re responsible for repaying the bank.