Can I get my money back after I've been scammed?
Unfortunately, it can be difficult to recover any lost funds after a scam. The best thing to do is contact the institution that issued the payment, let them know it was fraud, and ask them to reverse the transaction.
If you sent cash by mail, you can contact the US Postal Inspection Service and ask them to intercept the package.
Cryptocurrency payments are typically not reversible.
How do I report a suspicious email or spam phone call?
If you get a suspicious email, often times you can mark it as spam in your inbox. Your email provider will then know to filter out emails like that one into your spam folder. You can also forward the emails to reportphishing@apwg.org, the Anti-Phishing Working Group. Similarly, you can block numbers that sent you a spam text and forward the text to SPAM (7726) to report it. Phishing attempts can also be reported at https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/.
How can I check to see if a website is safe to use?
A quick Google search is a good way to start. Search the name of the website you want to use, followed by words like "scam" or "reviews" and see what pops up. Also make sure that the site you're visiting is secure, meaning it has the little padlock symbol over by the website address. You can also use Google's Transparency Report to check whether a site is safe.
Scam sites are also designed to look like sites you're familiar with. Keep an eye out for typos or odd spellings.
It's also a good idea to invest in some antivirus softwares like Norton or McAfee. They can constantly monitor whether malicious software or cookies have been installed on your computer, and can alert you when you're on a site that is trying to get your personal information!
How can I know if someone is using my personal information, like my social security number?
It can be extremely anxiety provoking knowing that you may have accidentally given out your personal information!
Your first steps after you suspect your SSN has been stolen is to report the theft, and to put a freeze on your credit.
Monitor your credit reports; these are a great resource to detect any fraudulent activity using your personal information. Obtaining these credit reports if often free.
What does Community First Credit Union do to help protect my information?
Community First Credit Union is committed to protecting our members by constantly monitoring activity, staying up to date on the latest fraud trends, and reaching out to our members when something doesn’t seem quite right. If fraudulent activity is detected, you will be contacted on the telephone number we have on file, so be sure to keep your contact information current.
If you suspect you might have fallen victim to a scam, please contact us immediately at 707-546-6000 or visit your LOCAL branch.
