Seven Common Financial Scams

Scammers are always finding new ways to trick people out of their money. Whether it’s a fake call from someone pretending to be your bank or an investment opportunity that sounds too good to be true, knowing the signs can protect you from trouble. 
 

Here are seven common financial scams and how to avoid them. 

1. Phishing Emails & Texts

Scammers send fake emails or texts pretending to be from your financial institution or another trusted place. They usually want you to click a link and enter your personal information. 

Red Flag: Strange email addresses, misspelled words, or urgent requests to "confirm your account." 

Stay Safe: Never click on these links. Instead, go straight to the real website. At DFCU Financial, associate emails end with @dfcufinancial.com, and our marketing emails come from communications@mc.dfcufinancial.com. 

 

2. Charity Scams

Scammers take advantage of your kindness, especially after a disaster or during the holidays. They pretend to collect donations for a good cause, but keep the money instead. 

Red Flag: You get unexpected calls, texts, or emails pressuring you to donate quickly. 

Stay Safe: Check charities through trusted sites like Charity Navigator or the Better Business Bureau. Always donate directly on the charity's official website. 

 

3. Fake Investment Opportunities

"Double your money overnight!" If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Scammers promise big profits quickly, then disappear with your money. 

Red Flag: Offers that guarantee huge returns without risks, especially if they pressure you to act immediately. 

Stay Safe: Do your research first. Real investments always carry some risk—scammers will tell you otherwise. 

 

4. Tech Support Scams

You see a pop-up on your screen saying your computer has a virus. A fake tech expert offers to fix it... for a price. 

Red Flag: Unsolicited calls or pop-ups warning about computer viruses. 

Stay Safe: Never give someone you don't know remote access to your computer. Only get tech support from people you trust. 

5. Romance Scams

Scammers create fake profiles on dating websites or social media, gain your trust, and then ask for money or gift cards, claiming an emergency. 

Red Flag: Someone you've never met in person asks you for money, gift cards, or cryptocurrency. 

Stay Safe: Never send money to anyone you haven't met face-to-face. 

6. Lottery & Sweepstakes Scams 

"Congratulations, you won! Just pay a small fee to claim your prize." But there’s no prize—just someone trying to steal your money. 

Red Flag: Being asked to pay upfront for a prize you didn’t even enter to win. 

Stay Safe: Real contests never require upfront payments to collect winnings. 

7. Work-From-Home Scams

Fake job ads promise easy money, but ask for upfront fees or your financial details. 

Red Flag: Jobs that ask for money upfront, vague job descriptions, or strange instructions about moving money. 

Stay Safe: Always research the company before accepting any job offer. Legitimate jobs never ask you to pay to get started. 
 

Final Thought: Stay Alert, Stay Secure 

Scammers are always evolving their tactics, but staying informed is your best defense. DFCU Financial is committed to helping you protect your money and personal information. 

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.