Have a Scam-Free Summer
Updated July 2026
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!
Bank Imposter Scams
Scammers may pretend to be your bank, a government agency or law enforcement. They often create a sense of urgency by claiming your account has been compromised or that your money is at risk.
Tip: If you receive an unexpected call, text or email, do not provide personal information. Hang up and contact the organization using a phone number you know is legitimate.
Credit Card Scams
Credit card scams come in a variety of forms. Scammers may overcharge services, steal your information through data breaches, use card-skimming devices at ATMs or gas stations or trick you into entering card information on fraudulent websites.
Tip: Don’t click suspicious links in text messages or emails and never share your credit card number through emails or with unsolicited callers.
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. Be wary of contractors who pressure you to act immediately or request large upfront payments.
One-Time Passcode Scams
Scammers may attempt to gain access to your accounts by convincing you to share a one-time passcode sent to your phone or email. They often pose as a bank representative, retailer or technical support agent.
Tip: Never share a one-time passcode with anyone. Legitimate businesses will never ask you for a verification code.
Phishing
Phishing occurs when a scammer attempts to steal your personal information through a fraudulent email, text message or website. These messages often appear to come from a trusted source, like a business or a bank.
Tip: Never click links in unexpected emails or text messages. If a message seems suspicious, contact the company directly using a phone number or website you know is legitimate.
Relationship Scams
Relationship scams often begin on social media, dating apps, gaming platforms or through unsolicited text messages. Over time, scammers build trust before requesting money for emergencies, travel expenses or investment opportunities.
Tip: Be cautious when communicating with someone you’ve never met in person. Never send money to someone based solely on an online relationship.
Vacation Rental Scams
Those dream vacation rentals can sometimes be too good to be true. Scammers may create fake listings or trick people into wiring money or signing contracts for vacation rentals that either don’t exist or don’t match the advertised property.
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.
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.