While many of us are focused on fresh starts and financial goals, scammers are focused on one thing: catching people off guard. Unfortunately, fraud attempts tend to spike at the start of the While many of us are focused on fresh starts and financial goals, scammers are focused on one thing: catching people off guard. Unfortunately, fraud attempts tend to spike at the start of the year. Here are some tips to consider:
Why January is Prime Time for Scams
After the holidays, people are:
- Tracking packages
- Filing taxes
- Donating to charitiesManaging new subscriptions and bills
Scammers take advantage of all of it!
Common Scams to Look For
- Fake package delivery texts or emails asking you to “confirm” information
- Tax-related scams claiming there’s an issue with your refund
- Impersonation calls or messages pretending to be a financial institution or government agency
- Urgent payment requests designed to create panic
If a message pressures you to act immediately, that’s your first red flag.
How to Protect Yourself
- Don’t click links or download attachments from unknown sources
- Never share personal or banking information by text or email
- Verify requests by contacting organizations directly
- Keep your contact information updated in online banking so we can reach you if something looks suspicious
When in Doubt, Call Your Financial Institution (Us!)
If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts. Reaching out early can prevent bigger problems later. We’re always here to help you sort out what’s real and what’s not.
Staying alert is one of the smartest financial moves you can make this year.
Category: Financial Literacy & Safety
