Tax season is here, and fraudsters are looking for ways to exploit victims. Banking scams are a constant and pervasive threat. Protecting against these risks requires vigilance and proactive measures. By staying informed about common scams and verifying transactions diligently, individuals can safeguard their finances and personal information effectively.
Beware of Tax Scams
Greenwoods or the IRS will never ask for personal information via email, text, or phone. Report suspicious activity to the FTC or your financial institution. We will never request your full Social Security number, PINs, or login credentials. Stay cautious and protect yourself this tax season.
Common Fraud Tactics
- Seasonal Scams: Fake tax preparers and refund scams target taxpayers.
- Romance Scams: Fraudsters pose as romantic interests to manipulate victims.
- Phishing & SMiShing: Fake emails or texts trick victims into sharing personal information.
- Vishing: Fraudsters call pretending to be trusted entities like the IRS.
- Check Fraud: Criminals steal checks, erase the ink, and rewrite them for larger amounts. Use permanent ink and mail checks securely.
- Pig Butchering: Scammers build trust online to lure victims into fake cryptocurrency schemes. Keep personal details private.
Red Flags for Fraud
- Offers that sound too good to be true.
- Requests for your Social Security number, PINs, or login credentials.
- Links or attachments in unexpected emails or texts.
- Pressure to act immediately or pay with gift cards or wire transfers.
How to Protect Yourself
- Monitor your accounts regularly for unusual activity.
- Report suspicious transactions immediately.
- Verify Senders: Contact organizations directly to confirm communications.
- Stay Secure: Use strong passwords and monitor your accounts regularly.
- Guard Your Information: Never share sensitive details with unsolicited contacts.