Imposter Scams On The Rise: What To Watch For In 2026

It often starts with a message that feels exciting or urgent. Maybe it looks like a celebrity reaching out, a well-known company asking you to confirm a payment, or even someone claiming to represent your credit union. The name is familiar and the message feels real. But behind the screen, it’s a scammer pretending to be someone you trust.

Imposter scams continue to rise, and criminals are getting better at copying voices, photos and online profiles to make their stories believable. Their goal is simple: create enough urgency, excitement, or fear that you act quickly before stopping to question what’s really going on.

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Common Ways Imposter Scammers Try to Reach You 

1. Celebrity Impersonations: Scammers create fake accounts that look like actors, musicians, or influencers. They may message fans directly, claim they need help, or offer special access, investments, or prizes. Once a connection is made, they often ask for money, gift cards, or cryptocurrency.   
2. Financial Institution or Government Imposters: You might get a call, text, or email from someone claiming to be from your credit union, the IRS, or another trusted group. They may say there’s fraud on your account or that you need to move money quickly to keep it safe.   
3. Romance and Friendship Scams: Someone may build a relationship over time through social media or messaging apps. They often share detailed stories and gain trust before asking for financial help because of an emergency or sudden opportunity.
4. Business or Employer Impersonations: Messages may appear to come from your boss, a delivery company, or a well-known retailer asking you to confirm payment details, buy gift cards, or click a link to resolve a problem.

How to Protect Yourself

1. Pause Before Responding: If a message feels urgent or emotional, take a moment. Scammers rely on quick reactions, and slowing down can help you spot warning signs.   
2. Verify the Person or Organization: If someone claims to be from a business or financial institution, contact them using a phone number or website you already trust, not the one provided in the message.   
3. Be Careful With Requests for Money: Requests to send money through gift cards, cryptocurrency, or payment apps are a common red flag.   
4. Limit What You Share Online: Personal details shared on social media can make it easier for scammers to pretend they know you or gain your trust.
5. Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, it probably is. It’s always okay to step back and double check.

Scammers are constantly changing their tactics, but their goal stays the same. They want to gain your trust and get you to act fast. Staying aware of how these scams work can make a big difference in protecting your information and your finances.

If you think you may have inadvertently shared your personal information with a scammer, please reach out to us right away. You can call us at (805) 733-7600, visit your nearest branch, send a secure message through mobile or online banking, or use the phone number on the back of your debit or credit card.