Fraud Awareness
Fraud can happen to anyone, regardless of their background, profession, or financial knowledge. It occurs when someone deliberately deceives you for financial gain or other benefits. While it's impossible to completely eliminate the risk of fraud, there are steps you can take to protect yourself.
We've listed several common fraud scenarios below so you can stay aware of common industry scams.
How to Identify Frauds
Fraud can happen in many ways, and it’s important to be aware of how it may show up in different settings. Scammers use various mediums to deceive individuals and organizations. Some of the most common ones include:
- Phone calls: Fraudsters may impersonate official organizations or people you trust, trying to convince you to share sensitive information.
- SMS: Scammers may send text messages with fake alerts or offers, aiming to trick you into clicking malicious links or sharing personal details.
- WhatsApp: Fraudulent messages may come through messaging apps, claiming to be from friends, family, or businesses, asking for money or information.
- Email: Phishing emails, often looking like legitimate messages, can trick you into revealing your personal details or downloading malicious attachments.
- Social Media: Fraudsters may create fake profiles or posts on social media, offering products, services, or even job opportunities, to steal your money or personal data.
Protect Yourself from Unauthorized/Fraud/Suspicious Transactions
If you notice any suspicious, unauthorized, or fraudulent transactions, it’s crucial to act quickly. Please report the details of any suspicious or fraudulent transactions to us immediately through:
Stay vigilant, and remember, your security is our priority!
Tips to Protect Yourself Against Fraud
Protecting yourself from fraud requires vigilance and caution. Here are some essential tips to help safeguard your finances and personal information:
- Never Send Money to Someone You Have Not Met in Person: Whether it’s an emergency request or a business deal, always verify the person’s identity and situation before transferring any money. Confirm any emergency situation through multiple sources to ensure it's legitimate.
- Remain Vigilant and Do Not Share Sensitive Personal Details: Be cautious when sharing personal details such as your full name, address, financial information, or Social Security number. Only provide these to trusted and verified individuals or organizations.
- Report Suspicious Activities Immediately: If you notice any suspicious activity, report it to the relevant authorities right away. Early reporting can help prevent further losses or identity theft.
- Use Secure Internet Connections: Avoid using public Wi-Fi or unsecured networks when accessing sensitive information online. Always use a secure, private connection, and ensure websites you visit are encrypted (look for "https://" in the URL).
- Confirm the Credentials of the Person Contacting You: If someone contacts you with an unexpected request, whether by phone, email, or text, verify their credentials. Contact the organization or individual directly using official contact details, not the ones provided in the suspicious message.
- Don’t Click on Suspicious Links: Be cautious of emails, messages, or websites that contain links or attachments that look suspicious. Scammers often use these to infect your device with malware or steal personal information.
- Never send money to unverified sources: such as online purchases, Anti-virus protection, deposit or payment on a rental property, claim lottery or prize winnings, pay taxes, donation to charity, Mystery shopping assignment, Job opportunity, Credit card or loan fee, Resolve an immigration matter
Report Fraud
If you believe you've been a victim of fraud or notice unauthorized transactions on your account, it's crucial to take immediate action. Here’s what you can do:
- Contact Your Issuing Bank
- Call the customer service or fraud hotline of your bank immediately. Most banks have a dedicated fraud department that can assist in investigating and securing your account.
- Report to Local Police Authorities
- File a report with local law enforcement. This is important for both tracking down the perpetrator and helping build a record of the incident.
- Provide all relevant details, including the transaction information, communication with the fraudster, and any other information you have gathered.
Prompt reporting can help minimize the impact of fraud and support efforts to prevent further fraudulent activity. Remember, your bank and local authorities are there to support and protect you. Take action right away to ensure your security and report fraud quickly!
