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Fraud Prevention 101

Learn how to protect yourself from fraud and scams.

A lock and credit card laying on top of a computer keyboard shaped into the Monecito Bank & Trust logo.
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Avoiding Scams Online & Offline

While the number of financial scams may be on the rise, most can be avoided if you know what to look for. Below you will find common scams and information on a number of resources to help you protect yourself and those you care about most from fraud and scams.

Common Scams

Sometimes knowing what to look for is half the battle. Here are some common scams you can look out for and avoid.

Have you been asked to donate to a charity by wiring money, buying a prepaid debit card, or paying a courier? Consider checking out the charity online first at www.charitywatch.org or www.charitynavigator.org.

Have you been asked to wire or send money to someone who contacted you via email or telephone? Have they asked for the money to be sent via green dot MoneyPak®, Money Gram, or Western Union, or to deposit cash in a bitcoin ATM? The request might seem to come from law enforcement, the IRS, or another government official threatening legal action, but no government agency will ever ask you to wire money. The request might also seem to be coming from someone you know – your grandchild, relative, or friend.

Have you been asked to wire, send, or ship money to a large U.S. city or overseas (such as Canada, Asia or Nigeria) to someone who asks you via email? Be suspicious of email requests pressuring you to take action quickly, even if it appears to be coming from a friend or family member. It's possible their email has been hacked and you're sending money to a crook.

Have you recently been informed that you won a sweepstakes or a lottery that you don't remember entering, and were asked to wire money to collect the prize? Never pay to claim a prize for a contest you didn't enter!

Resources and Resource Providers

There are several online resources with a wealth of information and tips for protecting you, your loved ones, and your business from fraud. Here are a few that we recommend.

Reference Documents:

Online Resources:

  • OnGuardOnline.gov – Practical tips from the federal government and the technology industry to help you stay on guard against internet fraud, secure your computer, and protect your personal information.

  • staysafeonline.org– Powered by the National Cyber Security Alliance, a site dedicated to educating and empowering the global digital society to use the internet safely and securely.

  • banksneveraskthat.com – Consumer tips for avoiding common scams, provided by the American Bankers Association.

Reference Documents:

Online Resources:

  • aba.com - View a quick guide on protecting your business from check fraud, provided by the American Bankers Association.

  • fcc.gov – The Federal Communications Commission regulates interstate and international communications by radio, television, wire, satellite and cable in the U.S., and offers training materials and other security resources for small businesses.

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