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Learn how to protect yourself against check fraud
What is check fraud? Thieves steal mail from standalone Postal Service home mailboxes and then using a variety of techniques, alter checks to remove the real information and steal your money or identity. Methods include “washing” checks in chemicals to erase the original information or “cooking” checks by making a digital scan and manipulating the information. This threat is growing and scammers are becoming more aggressive.
Fraud Alert!
Members have received phishing scam phone calls and text messages pretending to be from our fraud prevention department. They state there is a mysterious charge on your account! The caller asks for sensitive financial information to gain access to your account.
THIS IS A SCAM. If you receive a call or text message claiming to be from the Hang up and contact us directly at 716-771-5000 or Member Card Support at 1-833-574-3422.
Spot and Avoid Phishing Text Scams
Have you ever received a text message telling you you’ve won a contest your don’t remember entering? Or A text message that claimed to be from the IRS asking you to verify your social security number? It’s likely you were targeted by a text phishing scam. Older adults are common targets and this scam is growing. Reports of text phishing scams rose 150% from 2021 to 2022. Thankfully, vigilance and a careful eye can help protect you and your assets.
Preventing Elder Financial Exploitation
Elder financial exploitation is a very real and growing threat. It is defined as the illegal, unauthorized, or improper use of an older person’s funds, property, or assets. It’s a crime that can deprive older adults of their resources and independence. On average, victims of exploitation lose about $30,000. Perpetrators can be family members, friends, neighbors, caregivers, health care providers, business associates, or strangers. Read more about financial exploitation here, and the many warning signs to look for.