As the COVID-19 outbreak continues, each of us are looking for ways to keep our family and friends safe and healthy. Unfortunately scammers prey on panic and uncertainty and this situation is no different. While you should always be safeguarding your personal information, we urge you to be extra cautious during this time.
Neither the government nor Jordan Credit Union will ever contact you asking for personal account information such as your Social Security number, online username and password, account code word or debit card PIN.
COronavirus Stimulus Scams
Scammers haven’t wasted any time. In response to the federal stimulus package, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) has received several reports of coronavirus scams where individuals are contacted through text messages, social media post /messages, or phone calls. Some of these include details such as:
- Asking for your social security number
- Asking your to pay a processing fee
- Depositing treasury checks under a fake account
Other Types of Scams
Quid Pro Quo
Someone asking you for money (or a fee) in exchange for additional money, a prize, job opportunities, or another “quid pro quo” scenario.
Fraudulent Charities
Thieves my try to take advantage of your generosity by posing as a familiar charity. Make sure you go to the charity’s secure (https://) site and not through any third party links if you would like to donate.
Nondelivery Scams
With more and more people shopping online for items in high demand, criminals are posing as legitimate storefronts, taking payment upfront, and not delivering goods. Make sure you are shopping from reputable websites.
Phishing Scams
As people search for information, they are more likely to click on news links and other links promising information. Be cautious when clicking links. Always go directly to the source if possible. Malware and other harmful programs can infect and compromise your computer through corrupted links.
Be cautious of anyone calling, texting, or messaging you directly to ask for information.
“Grandma” Scams
Often a grandchild or another family member will call in a panic asking saying they are in a bad situation – one they can’t get out of without paying a significant fine. The scammers are hoping that grandma will send money without confirming that their grandchild is indeed in distress. Before you fall victim, call your grandchild, or their parents, and confirm their situation. Hopefully they are safe and sound at home and you can ignore the scam.
Neither the government nor Jordan Credit Union will ever contact you asking for personal account information such as your Social Security number, online username and password, account code word or debit card PIN.