Have a Scam-Free Summer
Updated August 2025
Summer is in full swing! While the summer months should be all about relaxing by the water or enjoying time in the sun, scammers, unfortunately, don’t take a summer break.
That’s why we’ve compiled a list of tips to help you stay alert and avoid falling victim to common scams, so you can focus on making the most of your summer!
Credit Card Scams
Credit card scams come in a variety of forms. Scammers may overcharge for services, steal your information through data breaches or use card-skimming devices at ATMs or gas stations.
Tip: Don’t click on suspicious links in text messages or emails and never share your credit card number through emails or with unsolicited callers.
Vacation Rental Scams
Those dream vacation rentals can sometimes be too good to be true. Scammers will trick people into wiring money or signing contracts for vacation rentals that they either don’t own or don’t even exist.
Tip: Avoid booking vacation rentals through online classified ads and never pay using instant payment services or gift cards! Always research the rental company or listing before making a payment.
Home Improvement Scams
Planning to tackle home projects this summer? Be cautious. Home-improvement scams continue to be one of the most reported issues to the New York State Division of Consumer Protection.
Tip: Ask for references and get quotes from several reputable contractors before making a payment. Scammers often pressure homeowners into quick decisions. Once you pay, the contractor could disappear.
Identity Theft
Identity theft occurs when your personal information, like logins, passwords or Social Security number is stolen.
Tip: Keep your personal information private, use strong passwords and be on the lookout for phishing scams. Make sure to shop on secure websites.
Family Emergency Scams
These scams involve someone pretending a loved one is in trouble to convince you to send money urgently. For instance, a scammer might claim that your grandchild has been arrested and needs money. Scammers use fear in their stories, pushing you to make a rushed payment.
Tip: Stay calm, verify the story with another trusted family member and never send money before confirming the situation.
Phishing
Phishing occurs when a scammer attempts to steal your personal information through a link in a text message or email. These messages often appear to come from a trusted source, like a business or a bank. If you click the link in the message, you could have their information stolen.
Tip: Never click the link in unexpected emails or text messages. If the message contains typos, comes from a strange email address, or generally looks “off,” delete it!
Fundraiser Scams
Scammers often exploit tragedy and community generosity by creating fake fundraising pages on popular fundraising platforms. These fraudulent accounts may not be connected to the cause at all and may use phishing tactics to trick people into donating.
Tip: Always verify that a fundraiser is legitimate prior to donating. Do not click on strange links that arrive in emails or text messages.
Report Your Experience
If you believe you’ve been the victim of a scam that may impact your accounts with us, call us right away at (518) 793-4121. We are here to help! We have trained professionals on staff who can assist you in taking the right steps.
If you’ve lost money, you should also file a police report. You can report scams and fraud directly to the Federal Trade Commission to help prevent others from becoming victims.