Digital banking provides convenience but also exposes you to various scams and fraud risks. Account Takeover occurs when scammers steal information to hijack bank, credit card, or government benefit accounts. Malware refers to malicious software created to damage or gain unauthorized access to computer systems. Spoofing involves impersonating trusted companies or individuals to steal sensitive information. Phishing, Smishing, and Vishing are common fraud tactics where scammers use emails, text messages, or voice calls pretending to be reputable companies to gather personal information. Even Spam messages can be a gateway for fraud. Stay alert and protect your digital accounts from these threats.

Be cautious when receiving spam emails, fake invoices, or suspicious notices. Never send money or provide personal information to unknown individuals or companies, and avoid clicking on hyperlinks in unsolicited emails. Never share your personal or financial information via unsolicited calls, emails, or text messages. Always verify the entity by contacting them through their official website or phone number. When it comes to wiring money, don’t send money to someone you can’t verify—once it’s sent, it’s usually gone for good. Be wary if you’re asked to act quickly; there’s no rush, and it’s important to take time to confirm the legitimacy of the request. Upfront money requests are a red flag—legitimate companies don’t require payment before awarding a prize. Similarly, avoid cashing checks or making cashier’s checks payable to someone you don’t know. If something sounds too good to be true, trust your instincts and say "no." Ask a trusted friend or family member for their opinion, don’t rush decisions, and always research the offer, person, or company. When in doubt, don’t give it out.

Digital banking safety is crucial, and recognizing scam red flags is key. Be cautious of fake invoices or notices that prompt immediate payment—always verify with trusted contact info. Never send money upfront for prizes or winnings, as legitimate companies don’t operate this way. Avoid wiring money to unverified sources, as it’s often untraceable and irreversible. Scammers may also impersonate banks or agencies to steal personal or financial information through unsolicited calls, emails, or texts. If pressured to act quickly, take a step back and verify. Always question too-good-to-be-true offers and check with a trusted person if needed. When in doubt, don’t share personal information, and research offers before acting.

Seniors are often targeted by phishing scams, including fake Medicare actions, spoofed bank notices, and urgent family or IRS threats. Vulnerabilities can arise from limited computer and internet skills, such as difficulty installing security software, recognizing fake websites, or understanding cybercriminal tactics. Seniors may also be more trusting online, making them prime targets for scams. Social networking sites and quizzes are commonly used to gather personal information, while cyberbullying tactics like emotional or financial abuse are becoming more prevalent.

Teens and tweens are increasingly targeted by scammers, especially online, with scams promising quick cash, fake online shopping deals, and fraudulent social media connections. Common scams include fake ads for luxury goods, contests or scholarships that require fees, and fraudulent job offers. Parents should keep communication open with their children about digital safety and teach them to recognize the warning signs. Popular scams affecting youth include identity theft via social media, online shopping fraud, talent and modeling scams, and online auction scams. It’s crucial to guide teens in recognizing these threats and ensure they understand the risks of sharing personal information online.

To protect your debit card and personal information, regularly review bank statements, sign your card upon receipt, and update your PIN and passwords every few months. Use only bank-associated ATMs to avoid skimming, set up transaction alerts, and report any lost or stolen cards to your bank immediately. Treat your card as you would cash and report any suspected fraud to both your bank and authorities. Avoid sharing or posting images of your card, conducting transactions over public networks, or providing details like your PIN or password to anyone.

Phone scams can cost victims significant amounts of money, sometimes their life savings. Scammers use a range of tactics, from pretending to be helpful to threatening or scaring victims into giving up money or personal information. Recognizing a scam is key: legitimate prizes don’t require payment to claim, real government agencies don’t threaten arrests over the phone, and no one should pressure you into immediate decisions or insist on payment through hard-to-recover methods like gift cards or cryptocurrency. Be cautious if someone claims to be from a government agency or uses robocalls without permission, especially if you’re on the Do Not Call Registry. Always take time to verify offers and never share sensitive information over the phone.