Red Flags: How to Spot Email Scams Quickly 

Email scams are everywhere – and clicking the wrong link can quickly turn into a costly mistake. Luckily, protecting yourself doesn’t require special expertise. Just knowing certain red flags can keep scammers out of your inbox and your wallet. 

1. Check the sender’s email address 

Scammers often use email addresses that look suspiciously close to real ones. All legitimate DFCU Financial associate emails come from addresses ending with @dfcufinancial.com, and our informative and marketing emails come from communications@mc.dfcufinancial.com. If you see something different, proceed with caution. 

2. Beware of urgent or threatening language 

Scammers count on urgency. Phrases like “act immediately,” “your account will be locked,” or “you must respond now” are common scare tactics. Legitimate companies, including DFCU, will never pressure you into immediate action through email. 

3. Watch out for odd grammar and spelling 

Emails filled with obvious spelling errors, grammatical mistakes, or awkward phrasing are usually red flags. Legitimate businesses carefully proofread communications—scammers usually don’t. 

4. Don’t trust unexpected attachments or links 

Never click links or open attachments from unexpected emails. Hover over links first to see the true destination URL. If in doubt, go directly to the company’s official website instead. 

Think you received a scam email? Here’s what to do: 

- Do not click on any links or download attachments. 

- Contact DFCU directly if the email claims to be from us. 

- Report and delete the suspicious email immediately. 

More tips: 

- If you receive a suspicious call or text, please call us at 888.336.2700 to confirm the message is truly from us.  

- Visit our Security and Fraud Protection page for more support.