Don’t Let Scammers Catch You Off Guard with These Red Flags

Scammers are always coming up with new tricks - but their scams often share the same warning signs. By learning what to look for, you can avoid getting caught in a scam and help protect those you care about, too.

This month, we’re shining a spotlight on six of the most common red flags. If you see one (or more!), it’s time to pause, verify and stay safe.

Top Scam Red Flags to Watch Out For 

1. Unsolicited Contact: If you get a call, text, email, or message out of the blue - especially from someone claiming to be from a government agency, company, or your financial institution - it’s a red flag. Scammers often pose as someone you trust to get your personal or financial information. Protect yourself by hanging up and contacting the organization directly using a confirmed number, like one from their official website.
2. Pressure to Act Immediately: Scammers don’t want you to stop and think. They create a false sense of urgency by claiming there’s an emergency, a missed payment, or a limited-time offer. If someone says you must act right now, whether it’s to avoid trouble or take advantage of a deal, that’s a big warning sign.
3. Unusual Payment Requests: Legitimate businesses or government agencies will rarely ask you to pay using cash, cryptocurrency, gift cards, bank wires, or payment apps like Zelle or Venmo. If someone asks for payment this way, it’s likely a scam. These payment methods are hard to trace and nearly impossible to get back.
4. Too Good to Be True: If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Be cautious of unexpected prizes, job offers, or investment opportunities that promise big returns with little or no risk. Scammers use these promises to draw people in, then take off with their money.
5. Told to “Keep It a Secret”: If someone tells you not to talk to anyone else about what’s happening, that’s a red flag. Scammers often use secrecy to isolate victims. They might say you’ll ruin a surprise, get someone in trouble, or that it’s part of an “investigation.” A legitimate person or company will never ask you to keep things secret.
6. They seem to know a lot about you: Don’t assume someone is legitimate just because they know your name, account details or other personal information. Scammers can use stolen data to make their calls, texts and emails sound convincing.

It’s okay to say no, hang up, ask questions and take a moment to pause - doing so can help stop a scam before it starts. These are just six of the most common red flags, but scammers are always coming up with new ways to try and get your money. That’s why it’s so important to stay alert, trust your instincts and never be afraid to double-check before you act. Share these tips with friends and family. Scammers target people of all ages, and knowing the warning signs can help protect everyone. 

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.