How to Avoid Common Scams and Fraud According to Javelin Strategy & Research, identity fraud cost Americans a total of about $56 billion last year, with 49 million consumers falling victim. On average, victims of identity theft scams lost $1,100. Fraudsters are always trying new ways to combine new technology with old tricks to send money or give out personal information. here are some practical tips to avoid most scams: 1. AVOID UNSOLICITED CALLS OR EMAILS Spoofing technology has made it easier than ever for scammers to impersonate anyone, from government agencies like the IRS to your favorite retailer. Avoid answering unknown phone numbers and let them roll into a voicemail for further scrutiny. If you do get a message that you think is legitimately from a government agency, call or email them back through the contact information listed on their website. If you answer a call, keep in mind that U.S. government agencies won't ask you to pay for information or services upfront. Additionally, government agencies typically won't call, text, email, or contact you on social media to ask for your Social Security, bank account, or credit card number. If you receive messages asking for this information, it's likely a scam. 2. NEVER SEND MONEY VIA GIFT CARD OR WIRE TRANSFER TO SOMEONE YOU HAVE NEVER MET FACE-TO-FACE Wire transfers, prepaid debit cards, and gift cards cannot be traced and are as good as cash. It is more than likely a scam if someone tells you to pay upfront to claim a prize, help someone out of trouble, or deal with tax issues. The same is true for depositing a check and wiring money back. 3. RESIST THE PRESSURE TO ACT IMMEDIATELY Fraudsters typically try to make you think something is scarce or a limited time offer. They want to push victims to make a decision right now before even thinking through, asking family members or friends. While some legitimate businesses use high-pressure sales tactics, it typically isn't a good idea to make an important decision quickly. 4. NEVER SHARE PERSONALLY IDENTIFIABLE INFORMATION Never share your personal information with someone who has contacted you unsolicited, whether it's over the phone, by email, on social media, even at your front door. This includes banking and credit card information, your birthdate, and Social Security/Social Insurance numbers. Do not participate in games or quizzes that reveal personal information such as first pet, mother's maiden name, or where you grew up. These lists have standard questions that hackers can use to break into various accounts. 5. DOUBLE CHECK YOUR ONLINE PURCHASE IS SECURE BEFORE CHECKING OUT Look for the "HTTPS" in the URL (the extras "s" for "secure") and a small lock icon on the address bar. Before shopping, research the company ensure the quality of the merchandise and make sure you are not buying cheap and/or counterfeit goods. 6. USE EXTREME CAUTION WHEN DEALING WITH ANYONE YOU'VE MET ONLINE Scammers use dating websites, Craigslist, social media, and many other sites to reach potential targets. They can quickly feel like a friend or even a romantic partner, but that is part of the con for you to trust them. Once they establish trust, they will make up a story and ask for money. 7. WHENEVER POSSIBLE, WORK WITH LOCAL BUSINESSES Ask that they have proper identification, licensing, and insurance, especially contractors who will be coming into your home or anyone dealing with your money or sensitive information. Read all of the small print on the contract and make sure to understand what the terms are. Review their Business Profiles at BBB.org to see what other people have experienced. 8. KNOW HOW TO KEEP YOUR SENSITIVE INFORMATION SAFE WITH FINANCIAL ONE. A. Online/Mobile Banking: Review your account regularly for fraudulent transactions. B. eStatements: Avoid the risk of information getting lost or stolen through the mail by signing up for eStatements. Securely access your statements within online or mobile banking. C. eAlerts: Set up account alerts to receive notifications on account activity and balance updates. When you log into your Financial One account, navigate to the services tab and click the eAlerts sub-menu. There you can set up different kinds of alerts for different accounts and how to receive them. D. Bill pay: Pay bills from your checking account without writing out checks and mailing your payments. Not only is it faster but safer too. E. Debit Card Controls: Use card controls to turn your debit card on/off. If you misplace your debit card, you can sign on to mobile banking to temporarily turn it off and back on when you find it. When you card is turned off, most types of transactions will not be processed. However, previously authorized recurring payments may be approved. Even when you take all the proper precautions, bad things can still happen. If you have accidentally divulged sensitive information or have been the victim of a scam, contact Financial One immediately. We have several measures we can take to protect you and your accounts. SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT NOVEMBER 15, 2021 0 LIKES Next Minneapolis Fall Home Maintenance Checklist SAVINGS How to Avoid Common Scams and Fraud Nov 15, 2021 Minneapolis Fall Home Maintenance Checklist Oct 29, 2021 How to Plan Your Finances for the Last Quarter of the Year Oct 3, 2021 How to Avoid Phishing Scams in Your Email Inbox Aug 24, 2021 Four Tips to Keep Your Budget While on Vacation Jul 22, 2021 make a paymentmobile bankingratesfaqprivacy & disclosuresdocumentscareersshared branchingfind an atmcontact Routing number: 291073503 NMLS: #623955 Blaine 10210 Baltimore St NE Blaine, MN 55449-6049 Coon Rapids 11465 Robinson Dr NW Coon Rapids, MN 55433 Columbia Heights 843 40th Ave NE Columbia Heights, MN 55421 Phone: 763-404-7600 Lobby hours (appointments preferred): Mon - Fri 9:00am - 5:00pm Blaine & Columbia Heights: Sat 9:00am - 12:00pm Coon Rapids: Closed Saturdays Drive-through hours: Mon - Fri 9:00am - 5:00pm Blaine & Columbia Heights: Sat 9:00am - 12:00pm Coon Rapids: Closed Saturdays We are closed on major U.S. holidays. 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