Combating Fraud and Scams in our Communities
Update from CSB Security Coordinator: Caitlyn Eulgen
Fraud is on the rise in our communities, affecting individuals like never before. As fraudsters become more sophisticated in their methods, it's crucial to keep you informed about prevalent scams in our area and provide you with strategies to protect your accounts and identity.
Grandparent Scam: Receiving calls from your grandchildren claiming they’re in trouble and need immediate help can trigger an immediate reaction. Exercise caution and ask questions that only your grandchildren would know. Fraudsters are unlikely to have specific details such as your grandchildren’s middle names, parents' names, or pets’ names. This is an easy way to verify the legitimacy of the call.
Microsoft/Norton Computer Pop-Ups: If you encounter a pop-up claiming your computer was hacked, be on alert. While it may appear that this pop-up is being sent by Microsoft or other virus protection, it may be a scammer. Such pop-ups may aim to take control of your computer and obtain sensitive information. When in doubt, contact the company’s support team through their official website. If you believe your computer may have a virus, simply shut down your computer and take it to a nearby PC professional.
Sweepstakes Winner: Have you been informed of winning money in a contest you never entered? It's a scam. Do not provide any sensitive information, particularly bank account details. Remember the phrase, “If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.”
Olympics 2024: Experts predict that the upcoming Olympics may lead to unexpected messages from hacked accounts of family and friends, claiming they're in Paris and their belongings were compromised. This may prompt you to act quickly to assist them. Verify such claims by contacting the family member or friend through a different, trusted communication method than the one used for the initial message.
Celebrity Impersonations: It's highly unlikely to receive a text, personal message, or email from a well-known celebrity. A celebrity asking for funds due to various circumstances is even rarer. Don’t fall for it!
These are some of the prevalent scams affecting our community. Please remain vigilant and if you're ever asked to deposit funds into a cryptocurrency machine, or leave physical cash, or multiple gift cards at a public location to win funds or receive an unexpected service, it's likely a scam.
Remember, our banking team is available to support you! If you have any questions or concerns, please contact our team during regular banking hours.