Stay Vigilant: Protect Yourself from Scams

If someone contacts you claiming you need to buy gift cards, Greendot Moneypak cards, or any other untraceable payment method to claim a prize, pay a bill, or resolve an issue, it is a scam. Legitimate businesses or organizations will never demand payment in this way. This does not mean that if somebody contacts you and wants you to pay with a credit card, personal check, or wire transfer it is not a scam, that could still be a scam as well. Honestly, if anybody contacts you unexpectedly trying to get money, it is likely a scam. Stay alert and protect yourself.

Scams are a reality we all face today, targeting people through phone calls, emails, text messages, and even face-to-face interactions. These schemes are designed to catch you off guard and take advantage of your trust. If someone demands money upfront, pressures you to act immediately, or presents an offer that seems unbelievably good, it’s likely a scam. Always pause, question, and verify before taking action—it could save you from falling victim.

Scammers lie to manipulate their victims. They often create elaborate stories to gain your trust or to make their demands seem legitimate. From pretending to be a government agency or a trusted company to fabricating emergencies involving loved ones, their goal is to exploit your emotions and extract money or sensitive information. Some scammers may even claim to be protecting you from scams to gain your confidence. Remember, no matter how convincing they sound, always verify their claims independently.

If you have any doubt at all about the situation, talk to your close relatives or friends that you can trust to give you honest guidance.

Here are some signs you might be dealing with a scam:

• Unsolicited offers: If someone contacts you out of the blue with an offer, whether it’s for a prize, investment, or service you didn’t request, it’s likely a scam. Legitimate businesses and organizations don’t operate this way. Be cautious, especially if the offer seems unusually enticing or demands quick action. Always verify unsolicited offers independently before responding.
• Pressure to act quickly: Scammers use high-pressure tactics to force you into making decisions without thinking. They may claim you’ll lose a prize, face penalties, or miss out on an amazing opportunity if you don’t act immediately. Avoid any situation where you feel pressured to act quickly. Take the time to verify their claims independently and don't be afraid to consult with someone you trust.
• Requests for personal information: Never share sensitive details such as your Social Security number, bank account information, passwords, or credit card numbers with random contacts. Scammers often impersonate trusted organizations or create a sense of urgency to pressure you. Only provide personal information if absolutely necessary to verified contacts that you are certain are legitimate.
• Too good to be true: Be cautious of offers that promise incredible rewards with little to no effort. Scammers lure victims with claims of guaranteed prizes, amazing deals, or life-changing opportunities. Always question the legitimacy of such offers—if it feels too good to be true, it almost always is. Verify the details independently and never act impulsively.
• Keep it a secret: If someone insists you keep their request a secret, it’s a scam. Scammers often instruct their victims not to tell anyone when buying gift cards or withdrawing money, claiming others might interfere. The truth? They know others will recognize the scam and try to protect you. Trust your instincts and seek advice from someone you trust.

Note: The elderly are especially vulnerable to scams. Scammers often target older adults because they tend to be more trusting, and their financial situations may be less scrutinized.