Stay Safe: Spot and Stop Online Scams

March 3, 2025

As we recognize Consumer Protection Week 2025, it is more important than ever to stay informed and proactive in protecting yourself from online scams. Fraudsters continually evolve their tactics, but by understanding how scams work, securing your information, and reporting suspicious activity, you can help safeguard both yourself and your community.

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Spot the Scam: Recognizing Red Flags

Scammers use various deceptive techniques to manipulate their victims. Be aware of these common tactics:

• Unexpected Requests – Banks will never ask for passwords, PINs, or Social Security numbers via call or text.
• Pressure and Urgency – Scammers often push for quick decisions. Take your time and verify before acting.
• Too Good to Be True Offers – If an offer sounds unrealistically good, it probably is. Be cautious of prize or money offers that require upfront fees.
• Unusual Payment Methods – Avoid transactions using wire transfers, gift cards, or cryptocurrency, as these are difficult to trace and recover.

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Stop the Scam: Securing Your Information

Protecting your financial security requires a proactive approach. Consider these key steps:

• Stay Informed – Learn about common scams and how to recognize them.
• Enhance Security – Enable Multifactor Authentication (MFA) for an additional layer of protection.
• Safeguard Personal Information – Never share banking details or sensitive data with unknown sources.
• Pause and Verify – If you receive a suspicious request, contact First Hope Bank directly before taking action.

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Share the Scam: Reporting to Authorities

If you suspect a scam, taking swift action can help prevent further fraud. Consider the following steps:

• Alert Your Card Issuer – Report unauthorized transactions to your bank or credit card provider immediately.
• File a Complaint with IC3 – Report online scams to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3).
• Report to the FTC – File a fraud report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
• Place a Fraud Alert – Contact a credit bureau to add a fraud alert to your credit report.
• Consider Freezing Your Card – Prevent unauthorized transactions by temporarily freezing your credit or debit card.

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Stay Vigilant, Stay Safe

During Consumer Protection Week 2025, let us commit to spotting, stopping, and sharing knowledge about scams. By staying cautious, securing our personal information, and reporting fraud, we can protect ourselves and those around us. Staying informed is the first step toward financial security, and collective vigilance can make a meaningful difference.

For more resources on fraud prevention, visit the Federal Trade Commission or the IC3 website. If you ever have concerns about suspicious activity, First Hope Bank is here to help.