How to Spot and Prevent Impersonation Scams
In today’s increasingly digital world, impersonation scams are sophisticated and more difficult to detect. Scammers pretend to be someone you trust to steal your personal information or money. Learn how these scams work and what to watch for to help you avoid becoming a victim.
What Are Impersonation Scams?
Impersonation scams occur when a fraudster pretends to be a legitimate person or organization in order to deceive you. These scams can happen via phone calls, emails, text messages, or even social media. The scammer’s goal is typically to gain access to sensitive information, such as your credit union account details, Social Security number, or passwords, or to trick you into sending money.
Common Types of Impersonation Scams
Government Impersonation
Scammers often pose as IRS, Social Security Administration, or local law enforcement officials. They may claim you owe back taxes, threaten arrest, or say your Social Security number has been compromised. They pressure you into providing sensitive information or making immediate payments.
Tech Support Scams
In this type of scam, you may receive a call or pop-up message claiming to be from a well-known tech company like Microsoft or Apple. The scammer tells you your device has a virus and asks for remote access to your computer or payment to fix the issue.
Family/Friend Impersonation
Scammers may pretend to be a friend or family member in distress, claiming they’ve been in an accident, arrested, or are stranded in a foreign country. They request immediate help, often asking for money to be wired or sent via gift cards.
Business Impersonation
Some scammers impersonate legitimate companies, sending emails or messages that look official, asking you to verify account details or make payments. These scams often target large organizations but can affect individuals, too.
Romance Scams
Scammers pretend to be someone interested in a romantic relationship using fake profiles on dating apps or social media. Once they gain your trust, they ask for money, often with an emotional story to tug at your heartstrings.
How to Avoid Impersonation Scams
Verify the Source
Never trust unsolicited communication that asks for personal information or money. If you receive a suspicious call, email, or message, take a moment to verify the identity of the person or organization contacting you. Use official contact details from trusted sources, such as the phone number on the back of your credit card or the official website of the organization, not the information provided in the message.
Don’t Share Personal Information
Be cautious about sharing sensitive information like Social Security numbers, bank details, or passwords over the phone or online, especially if you didn’t initiate the contact.
Watch for Red Flags
Scammers often create a sense of urgency, pressuring you to act immediately. They may use fear tactics, like threats of arrest or account closure, or play on your emotions. Legitimate organizations won’t ask for sensitive information or payments in this manner.
Use Strong Security Practices
- Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA): MFA adds an extra layer of security to your accounts, requiring a second form of verification, such as a text message or email code. This means even if a scammer has your password, they still can’t access your account without the second verification step.
- Create strong passwords: Use unique, complex passwords for each of your accounts to prevent scammers from gaining access.
- Monitor your accounts: Regularly review your financial statements and online accounts for any suspicious activity.
Be Skeptical of Unusual Payment Requests
Scammers often ask for payment through wire transfers, gift cards, or cryptocurrency. Cryptocurrency is a digital or virtual form of money that uses cryptography for security. Scammers prefer these methods as they are hard to trace. If someone asks you to pay in this way, it’s a red flag.
Report Scams
If you suspect a scammer has contacted you, report it immediately to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), your credit union, or the platform where the scam occurred.
What to Do If You Fall Victim to a Scam
If you realize you’ve provided information or money to a scammer, act quickly:
- Contact your credit union or credit card company: They may be able to stop transactions or freeze your accounts.
- Change passwords: Update any passwords or security questions that might have been compromised.
- File a report: Notify the FTC and your local authorities to help prevent further fraudulent activity.
Stay Vigilant
Impersonation scams are on the rise and are increasingly sophisticated. Learn to spot these scam tactics and stay vigilant to protect yourself and your loved ones. When in doubt, take time to verify any suspicious communication before acting. Scammers rely on pressure and confusion, but a calm, careful approach can make all the difference.
Feel free to contact us with any concerns or need more information on keeping your accounts secure. We’re here to help!