How to Spot and Avoid Financial Scams

In today's increasingly digital world, financial scams have become more sophisticated and prevalent than ever. Scammers are constantly finding new ways to trick individuals and businesses out of their hard-earned money. As a responsible bank, we are committed to helping our customers protect their finances.

Recognize Common Types of Financial Scams

Financial scams come in various forms, but some common types include:

Phishing Emails:  Scammers send emails that appear to be from legitimate sources, asking for personal information or financial details.
Impersonation Scams:  Fraudsters pose as a trusted individual, organization, or government agency, requesting payments or sensitive information.
Investment Scams:  These scams promise high returns with little risk, encouraging individuals to invest in fraudulent schemes.
Lottery and prize scams:  Scammers say victims won but must pay fees or taxes to get their winnings.
Online Shopping Scams:  Scammers create fake online stores or auctions to sell products that don't exist.

Trust Your Instincts

One of the most critical aspects of avoiding financial scams is trusting your instincts. If an offer or request feels too good to be true or seems suspicious, it probably is. Be cautious, and don't rush into making financial decisions without thorough research.

Verify the Identity of the Sender

When receiving an email or a call from someone requesting personal or financial information, take the time to verify their identity. If it's an email, look for telltale signs such as typos, generic email addresses, or unfamiliar sender names. If it's a call, request their full name and contact information, and call back using an official number obtained independently.

Protect Personal Information

Guarding your personal and financial information is crucial. Be cautious about sharing sensitive data like your Social Security number, bank account details, or passwords. Legitimate organizations will not ask for this information via email or phone calls.

Utilize Security

Protect your online accounts by using strong, unique passwords and enabling two-factor authentication whenever possible. Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification, such as a one-time code sent to your phone. When using Frontier Bank’s Online Banking, make sure to set up Notifi to ensure that you are always getting notified of any alerts to your account.

Educate Yourself

Stay informed about the latest scams and fraudulent tactics. Follow reputable news sources and government agencies that provide information on current scams and how to avoid them. We provide resources on our blog to help you stay updated and informed about financial fraud.

Review Bank and Credit Card Statements

Regularly monitor your bank and credit card statements for any unauthorized or suspicious transactions. Report any discrepancies to your financial institution immediately. Timely action can help prevent further losses.

Be Careful with Unexpected Offers.

If you receive an unsolicited email, call, or message that promises extraordinary financial opportunities, be cautious. Do your due diligence, research the offer, and consult with a trusted financial advisor before making any decisions.

Report Suspected Scams

If you encounter a potential financial scam, make sure to call your local branch immediately.

Protecting yourself from financial scams is an ongoing effort, and it requires vigilance and caution in today's digital age. To avoid fraud, trust your instincts, verify the sender's identity, and take steps to safeguard your personal information. This will reduce the chances of falling victim to scams. Stay informed, and remember that we are here to provide guidance and support in safeguarding your finances.