Protecting Loved Ones from Scams
It’s Cybersecurity Awareness Month, and we’re sharing resources to help you stay safe online. While anyone can be targeted by fraud, scammers often focus on older adults, using phone calls, emails, texts, and other tactics to steal money or personal information.
Common Scams Targeting Older Adults
According to AARP, some of the most common scams affecting older adults include:
- Bank Impersonation Scams: Fraudsters pretend to be your bank and claim there’s an issue with your account.
- Tech Support Scams: Scammers pose as computer or software support representatives to gain access to your device or personal information.
- Government Impersonation Scams: Criminals claim to represent agencies such as the IRS or Social Security Administration and demand immediate action or payment.
- Grandparent or Family Emergency Scams: A caller pretends to be a loved one in trouble and urgently requests money.
- Romance Scams: Criminals build trust online before asking for money or financial assistance.
- Lottery and Sweepstakes Scams: Victims are told they’ve won a prize but must pay a fee to claim it.
Common Scam Red Flags
- Pressure to act immediately.
- Requests for personal or financial information.
- Demands for payment via gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency.
- Messages claiming a loved one is in trouble and needs money.
- Unexpected calls, texts, or emails about prizes, refunds, or account issues.
Ways to Help Protect Yourself and Others
- Verify requests by contacting the organization directly.
- Never share passwords, account numbers, or security codes.
- Monitor financial accounts regularly.
- Talk openly with family members about common scams.
- Encourage loved ones to report suspicious activity.
Fraud Prevention Is a Family Effort
Even if you’re tech-savvy, scammers may be targeting your parents, grandparents, neighbors, or another older adult in your life. Take a few minutes to check in, share fraud-prevention tips, and encourage them to ask questions before responding to suspicious messages. Looking out for one another is one of the best ways to stop fraud before it happens.
Extra Protection for the Whole Family
For added peace of mind, consider identity theft protection and monitoring services like ID Watchdog®, which can help monitor personal information, detect potential identity theft, and provide support if fraud occurs. Offered at a discount for TruNorth Bank customers, our plans offer protection options for individuals and families, helping you safeguard the people who matter most. Visit an office or call Customer Care to learn more.
TruNorth Bank is here to help!
Your security is our priority. That’s why we’re sharing practical tips and resources to help you stay protected online. If you suspect fraud or notice unusual account activity, contact Customer Care immediately at 855.527.4111. For additional fraud prevention resources, visit our Cybersecurity Awareness Month webpage, or stop by your local office.
