How to Spot Fraud

Fraud attempts come in many forms, but most share common tactics designed to confuse, pressure, or mislead you.

1. Signs of Fraud in Any Format (Phone, SMS, Email)

Urgency and Pressure

Scammers try to get you to act before thinking:

• “Your account will close in 30 minutes!”
• “Immediate action required!”

Legitimate organizations rarely use threats or deadlines.

Unexpected Contact

If you didn’t expect the call, message, or email—treat it with caution, no matter how official it looks.

Requests for Sensitive Information

Fraudsters may ask for:

• Passwords
• One-time verification codes
• Payment details
• Remote access to your phone/computer

This is always a red flag.

Too-Good-to-Be-True Offers

Examples:

• Surprise refunds
• Prize winnings
• Job offers with unrealistic pay

2. How to Spot Fraud by Phone

Key Warning Signs

• Caller claims to be from a bank, government, or delivery service.
• Caller ID looks official but feels suspicious (numbers can be spoofed).
• They ask you to stay on the line or prevent you from calling back.
• They ask for personal info or payment methods like gift cards or crypto.

How to Confirm

• Hang up immediately.
• Call back using the official number from the organization’s website.

3. How to Spot Fraud by SMS

Warning Signs

• Unexpected tracking links or “package held” messages.
• Bank or account alerts asking you to click a link.
• Shortened URLs (e.g., bit.ly).
• Messages from numbers you don’t recognize.

How to Confirm

• Check your official app (bank, delivery service). -Do not click any links.
• Do not reply—not even “STOP.”

4. How to Spot Fraud by Email (Phishing)

Warning Signs

• Sender address looks almost right but not exact.
• Unexpected password reset or payment request.
• Attachments you didn’t expect.

How to Confirm

• Hover over links to preview the real URL.
• Access your account through the official website or app, not by clicking the email.