When you think of spring cleaning, you probably picture closets, garages, and junk drawers. But there’s another place that deserves attention this season: your inbox.
Fraud often starts with a simple message -- a text, email or DM that looks legitimate. In fact, last year more than 1 in 4 people who reported losing money to fraud said it began with a fake message. Just like clutter in your home, suspicious messages can pile up quickly. Ignoring them can be costly.
Common Red Flags
Knowing what to look for can make all the difference.
- Urgent or threatening language
Messages that say “Act now” or “Your account will be locked” are meant to create panic. - Requests for sensitive information
Legitimate organizations won’t ask for passwords, PINs, or full Social Security numbers through email, text, or social media. - Suspicious links
If a link looks unusual or doesn’t match the company’s official website, don’t click it. - Strange sender details
Misspelled email addresses, random phone numbers, or slight variations in a company’s name are warning signs. - Unusual payment requests
Scammers often ask for gift cards, wire transfers, or other methods that are hard to trace or reverse.
What To Do If You Receive a Suspicious Message
If something feels off:
- Don’t click on links
- Don’t reply
- Contact the company directly using a phone number or website you trust
- Report the message as spam or phishing
How We Can Help
Protecting your finances also means protecting your peace of mind. If you believe you may be experiencing a romance scam, or if something doesn’t feel right, contact us right away. We’re here to help you navigate situations like these with care and confidence.
If you believe you have been victimized by identity theft, report the incident immediately by calling the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Identity Theft Hotline
Toll-Free: 1-877-IDTHEFT
TDD: 202-326-2502
Online at https://www.identitytheft.gov/
Also, call us at 1-888-8CAPFED to report any unusual activity related to your accounts.