Have a Scam-Free Summer
Updated July 2024
Summer is in full swing! Summertime should be spent relaxing in the sun or swimming in the pool, not worrying about becoming the victim of a scam. Unfortunately, scammers don’t take summer vacations.
That’s why we’ve compiled a list of tips to help you enjoy a scam-free summer!
Credit Card Scams
Credit card scams come in a variety of forms. They include overcharging for services, security breaches and card skimming at ATMs or gas stations. Remember, don’t click on links in text messages or emails and don’t share your credit card number through emails or unsolicited calls.
Vacation Rental Scams
Sometimes those beautiful vacation rentals are too good to be true. Scammers will trick people into wiring money or signing contracts for vacation rentals that either they don’t own or don’t even exist. Avoid booking vacation rentals through online classified ads, and never pay using instant payment services or gift cards!
Home Improvement Scams
Be careful if you’re hiring out for a home improvement project this summer. Home improvement scams are consistently ranked as a top complaint to the New York State Division of Consumer Protection.
Ask for references and get quotes from several reputable contractors before making a payment. Scammers want you to make a rushed decision, and once you’ve handed them your hard-earned cash, that money may be gone forever.
Identity Theft
Identity theft occurs when a criminal steals your personal information, like logins, passwords or Social Security number. Protect yourself by keeping your personal information private, using strong passwords and being wary of phishing. Also, make sure to always use a secure website when you shop online.
Family Emergency Scams
This scam occurs when a victim is tricked into paying to get their family member out of some type of emergency. For instance, a fraudster might claim that your grandchild has been arrested and needs money. Scammers use fear in their stories, pushing you to make a rushed payment.
In these situations, it’s important to think before you act. Try to contact your family member, and never send cash, gift cards or money transfers to anyone you do not know.
Phishing
Phishing occurs when a scammer attempts to steal your personal information through a link in a text message or email. The messages often appear to come from a trusted source, like a business or a bank. If the victim clicks a link in the message, they could have their information stolen.
You can protect yourself from phishing by never clicking 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 take advantage of the misfortune and generosity of the community using popular fundraising platforms. They create fake accounts that are not related to the victims or use phishing attempts that prod people into clicking links.
You can stay safe from these scams by verifying a fundraiser is real prior to donating and not clicking strange links that arrive in emails or text messages.
Report Your Experience
If you’ve been the victim of a scam that impacts your accounts with us, contact us right away at (518) 793-4121. We are here to help! We have trained professionals on staff who help customers fight fraud. If you’ve lost money, you’ll want to file a police report. You can also report your experience to the Federal Trade Commission.
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