Protect Yourself from Scams

The start of a new year is full of opportunities, but scammers are always working on new ways to catch people off guard. From fake deals online to suspicious payment requests, it’s important to stay alert. The good news? A little knowledge and caution can go a long way in keeping your money safe.

Common Scams to Watch For

Scams come in all shapes and sizes, but here are some you should keep on your radar:

• Phony Online Stores: Ads promoting "too good to be true" deals often lead to fake websites designed to steal your payment information.
• Imposter Emails or Texts: Messages pretending to be from banks, retailers, or even government agencies, asking for personal or financial details.
• Payment App Scams: Claims of accidental payments or fake requests for refunds through apps like Venmo or CashApp.
• Social Media Traps: Fake giveaways, hacked accounts asking for money, or "quick cash" schemes in your DMs.

Spotting the Red Flags

Spotting scams isn’t always easy, but a few warning signs can help you stay ahead. Emails or messages with grammar mistakes or unusual links are clear signs of trouble. Pressure to act immediately—whether it's claiming you'll lose money or a threat of legal action—is another tactic scammers use to trick you into acting without thinking. Always pause, double-check the source, and never rush into a decision.

Protect Yourself Against Scams

Protecting your finances doesn’t have to be complicated. Use unique, strong passwords for your accounts and enable two-factor authentication wherever possible. Be cautious about clicking on links or downloading files from unknown sources. If someone claims you owe money or asks for payments, confirm their identity before taking action. Small habits like these can keep you and your money safe.

What to Do If You’ve Been Scammed

If you think you’ve fallen victim to a scam, don’t worry—just take these steps quickly:

• Change your account passwords and enable extra security settings.
• Contact Guadalupe Credit Union immediately to secure your accounts and block unauthorized transactions.
• Report the scam to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

GCU Is Here to Help

Worried about a suspicious message or payment request? Guadalupe Credit Union has your back. Visit one of our branches or give us a call—we’re here to help you safeguard your finances and personal information.

Stay Safe and Informed

A little caution can go a long way in protecting yourself from scams. Stay aware, trust your instincts, and always double-check requests for money or personal details.