Common Types of Fraud & How to Prevent Them

Security & Fraud

Ready for a scary stat?

According to Javelin Strategy & Research’s 2022 Identity Fraud Study, in 2021 alone, traditional identity fraud and identity fraud scams accounted for $52 billion of loss affecting 42 million US consumers. That staggering statistic gives you an idea as to just how rampant ID theft and fraud scams have become.

To help you stay safe and avoid ID theft and other financial scams, we’ve put together this list of the most common types of fraud — and included some tips to help keep you and your accounts safe and secure. Read on.

Phone Scams

Speaking on the phone requires quick decision-making, which means you could be more vulnerable to fraud. Here are some tips.

  • Let phone calls from numbers you don’t recognize go to voicemail. If it’s important, the caller will leave a message.
  • If you do answer a call from a number you don’t recognize and the person on the other end asks if you can hear them, hang up immediately. Scammers can record your voice and use it to make purchases with voice recognition programs.
  • Avoid giving out any personal information over the phone to people you don’t personally know.
  • Add your landline and/or mobile phone number to the Federal Trade Commission’s National Do Not Call Registry. If you receive any possible scam calls, report them as soon as possible.

Once they get you on the line, phone fraudsters may attempt to solicit personal information like usernames, passwords, PINs, social security numbers, and one-time passcodes. Phone numbers can also be “spoofed” in order to appear legitimate.

Remember, Connexus will never call and ask for personal or account information. If you receive a phone call from someone claiming to be a representative of Connexus and who is trying to get you to share personal or account information, please hang up immediately.

Identity Theft

According to the Identity Theft Resource Center, this is what identity thieves are after:

  • Card and account numbers: Do your research before online shopping. If the site is not secure, don’t provide your account, credit card, or debit card numbers. To be safe, keep track of your accounts so you can quickly spot any suspicious transactions.
  • Social security number: Don’t give out your social security number unless you absolutely have to, and avoid carrying the card with you so it’s less likely to get lost or stolen.
  • Driver’s license number: Treat this number like the other numbers above. Don’t provide it unless you have to, and make sure you don’t lose your physical license. It could be used to apply for credit or board a flight.

Skimming

ID thieves can install skimming devices on ATMs or card machines at gas pumps to steal card information when you swipe. Some even add tiny cameras or button overlays to record your PIN. Here’s how to prevent it:

  • Check for Tampering: Before using an ATM or gas pump, wiggle the card slot and keypad. If either seems loose, don’t use it. You should also notify the police if you suspect any tampering.
  • Opt for contactless: If your debit or credit card offers contactless capabilities or a “Tap to Pay” option, choose that over physically swiping the card.
  • Protect your PIN: No matter where you are, you should always cover the PIN pad with your hand when entering your PIN. Make sure to wiggle the PIN pad first to make sure it doesn’t have an overlay on it.
  • Avoid remote locations: ATMs and gas pumps that are in unlit, low-traffic areas are more likely to have been tampered with. When possible, avoid using cards at these locations.

Internet Fraud

Here are some of the most common types of internet fraud, according to the FBI:

  • Malware: If you receive emails from unknown sources, they should be deleted immediately. If you open a suspicious email, don’t click on any links or open any attachments.
  • Phishing: Beware of any emails that ask for your personal information (address, Social Security number, bank account, etc.). These kinds of emails should be deleted immediately.

Identity theft and fraud are real and affect a lot of people every year. However, if you know what to look for, you can decrease your chances of becoming a victim. If you have any questions about how to avoid fraud on your Connexus accounts, reach out to us over Facebook, email us at info@connexuscu.org, or call our Member Contact Center 800.845.5025.