Online scams are real and happen more than you think! Recognizing common signs of a scam can help you avoid them. Check out these four common signs of a scam:
- Scammers pretend to be from an organization you know. Scammers often pretend to be contacting you on behalf of the government or a familiar and reputable source. They might use a real name or make up a name that sounds official. Scammers frequently use technology to change the phone number that appears on your caller ID so beware, the name and number you see might be spoofed.
- Scammers say there’s a problem or a prize. They might say you’re in trouble with the government, you owe money, someone in your family has an emergency or there’s a virus on your computer. They might also say there’s a problem with one of your accounts and you need to verify some information. Others will claim you won money in a lottery or sweepstakes but have to pay a fee to receive your prize – or ask for your bank account information to deposit your funds.
- Scammers pressure you to act immediately. Scammers want you to act before you have time to think. If you’re on the phone, they might tell you not to hang up so you can’t verify their story.
- Scammers tell you to pay in a specific way. They often insist that you pay by sending money through a money transfer company or by putting money on a gift card and then giving them the number on the back. Some will send you a check (that will later turn out to be fake), tell you to deposit it and then send them a portion of the money.
While Southeastern Bank hopes you never find yourself in one of these situations, the first step is to stop communicating with the scammer IMMEDIATELY and block them, if possible. Never divulge any personal information, including any information on your bank accounts. And remember, if you ever suspect fraudulent activity on, or other compromise of, your accounts, call your local Southeastern Bank immediately.
Source: Federal Trade Commission
About Us: Southeastern Bank, established in 1888, has a long history of serving its customers and communities. From checking accounts and loans to investments and more, Southeastern Bank has the financial products you need most. Southeastern Bank has 10 locations throughout coastal Georgia and northeast Florida that include Brunswick, Callahan, Darien, Eulonia, Folkston, Hilliard, Kingsland, Nahunta, Richmond Hill and St. Simons Island.
