Protect Your Accounts this Holiday Season

As we enter the busy holiday season, we want to remind our members to be extra cautious and vigilant in protecting their personal and financial information. Unfortunately, scammers often target individuals more frequently during this time, taking advantage of the excitement and rush to make holiday purchases. Below are some of the most common types of scams currently trending, along with tips on how to stay safe.

Here are some common scams to watch out for:

1. Phishing Scams: Phishing is a tactic where scammers attempt to steal your personal or financial information by posing as a trusted source. This could come as a “cold call” that spoofs a phone number, making it appear as if it’s from your bank or another trusted institution. They may also reach out through emails or text messages containing links designed to trick you into providing sensitive details. Always be cautious before clicking on links or providing any information.
2. Remote Access Scams: These scams involve scammers taking control of your device remotely, allowing them to see your screen and access your personal files. They typically ask you to install remote access software, which gives them control of your device. This could be used to gather sensitive information like passwords or financial details. Remember, never give remote access to anyone you don’t know and trust.
3. Online Shopping Scams: Scammers often create fake websites designed to trick you into making purchases or entering personal information. A common example is spoofed websites offering deals on store closing sales. For instance, you may come across a sale for Bed, Bath & Beyond, but check the website carefully—a fake site could use a web address like www.bedbathnbyond.com instead of the legitimate www.bedbathandbeyond.com.
4. Free Trial Scams: These scams promise free trials that only require payment for shipping. However, fine print often reveals that you’ll be charged the full price if the item isn’t returned within a certain period. Always be cautious when offered something “free” and check the return policy.
5. Ad-Bait Scams: Scammers may use deceptive ads that lead to spoofed websites or even remote access scams. If an ad seems too good to be true, it probably is. Always double-check the legitimacy of websites and offers before making a purchase.
6. Fake Arrest Warrant Scams: These scams involve fake threats of arrest or legal action, often claiming you failed to appear in court. The scammers may demand money or personal information to avoid further action. Always verify such claims with the appropriate authorities.
7. Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Scams: Scammers are increasingly targeting users of online marketplaces by requesting payment via P2P (person-to-person) providers, and then never providing goods/services. Some examples include puppy dog scams, private party vehicle sale scams, etc. Most P2P transactions do not include purchase protection, meaning there is no recourse if seller does not provide the product or services. Always be cautious when buying or selling through P2P platforms.
8. Fake Employment Scams: These scams often target job seekers, especially through social media or employment websites like Indeed or Craigslist. A scammer may send you a large check and ask for a portion of it to be sent back for hiring costs or equipment. Never send money to someone you don’t know, especially if you haven’t started a legitimate job.
9. Fake Refund Scams: In these scams, the scammer pretends to be a company offering a refund. First, the scammer tricks you into believing that you’ve suddenly been refunded too much by mistake (usually during a remote access scam). Then, the scammer demands you pay back the difference via gift cards or wire transfer, often threatening legal action if you do not comply. Always be suspicious if someone demands payment in gift cards, especially in urgent circumstances.

How to Protect Yourself

• Never allow someone to remotely access your device unless you are sure of their identity.
• Set up alerts with your bank to monitor transactions and suspicious activity.
• Burn or shred documents with personal or financial information.
• Keep a close eye on your mail and, if needed, ask the post office to hold your mail when you’re on vacation.
• Opt-in for eStatements to reduce the risk of sensitive mail being stolen.
• Stay informed of mail deliveries to avoid missing important documents via USPS Informed Delivery alerts.
• Set up transaction alerts for every purchase made with your debit or credit cards.
• Sign up for these credit monitoring services to keep an eye on your credit.

At Embold, we will never ask for your personal or account information through an email, text message, or phone call. If you are in doubt or suspicious about a particular communication you are receiving, please call us directly at 503.656.0671.

We hope these tips help you stay safe and secure during the holiday season and beyond. Always remember to be cautious when sharing personal information and don’t hesitate to reach out if you suspect anything suspicious. Stay safe!