As we head into the season of giving, scammers are working overtime to take.
Last year alone, fraudsters stole more than $2.67 billion from consumers, often through fake emails, texts, and calls that looked surprisingly real.
Here are some of the most common tactics to watch for this November, and how to stay one step ahead:
- Suspicious Text Messages
Scammers love text messages because they catch you off guard. These messages often claim there’s a problem with your account or that you need to click a link to verify information. If a text asks for personal or financial information, it’s a scam. CapFed® and other legitimate businesses will never request details like your Social Security number, PIN, account password, authentication code or card information over text.
- Impersonation Phone Calls
A common tactic is posing as your bank, a utility company or even a government agency. Scammers often use fear or urgency: “Your account is locked,” “You owe money,” “We detected fraud”, to get you to act quickly. If the caller asks for sensitive information, hang up immediately. Then call the organization back using a verified number.
- Shopping, Travel, and Job Scams
From high-discount online deals that never arrive to travel sites offering “unbelievable” prices, scammers use fake storefronts to steal your payment info. Job scams are also surging: criminals pose as recruiters, offering remote roles and then asking for your ID, banking details, or money for “equipment” or “onboarding.” If the deal is too good, the communication feels rushed or they ask for personal information before you’ve verified the company, it’s likely a scam.
Always take a moment of caution before you share, answer, or click online. Slow down, verify anything that feels off, and never hand over sensitive information through a text, email, or unexpected call. This season, stay alert, stay informed and give thanks, not personal information.
If you believe you have been victimized by identity theft, immediately report the incident 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.