Fraud Prevention 101

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 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.

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:

Fraud flyers and bookmarks– Quick tips to help you identify potential scams.
ATM Skimming – Info about ATM skimmers and how to spot them.
Protect your Mobile Device – 12 steps to protect your device from hackers.
Password Management – 10 tips to help keep your information secure.
Virtual Kidnapping – Learn about how to protect yourself from the growing number of Virtual Kidnapping scams.

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:

Business Email Compromise Scams - Learn how cyber thieves use email and wires to steal from businesses;
Banking self-assessment & recommended tech controls - Detailed tips for your IT department
Social Engineering red flags - What to look for when determining the legitimacy of an email
Securing your Website (Business) – Keep your business Content Management System (CMS) up to date and websites secure.
Securing your Website (Nonprofit) – Keep your nonprofit Content Management System (CMS) up to date and websites secure.

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.