Do you know enough about fraud prevention to keep your identity and finances safe?
Scammers across California are getting more creative, but their goal hasn’t changed: catch you off guard and get you to act fast.
If you live in Humboldt, Del Norte, or Trinity counties, you’re just as likely to be a target of financial fraud as anyone else in the state. Understanding fraud prevention helps you protect your personal and financial information from scams, identity theft, and unauthorized transactions.
Common Financial Scams
Many scams follow familiar patterns. Once you know how to spot fraud, you’re already one step ahead. Here are nine common financial scams affecting Californians today:
Imposter
Someone pretends to be the IRS, Social Security, law enforcement, or even your credit union or bank. They claim there’s an urgent problem and pressure you to send money or share personal information.
Family or Friend in Trouble
You get a call or message saying a loved one has been hurt, arrested, or stranded. You’re told to keep it secret and send money quickly.
Romance
You build an online relationship with someone who seems caring. Over time they ask for money for emergencies or investments. They lean on your emotions, while making excuses not to meet in person.
Prize
You’re told you’ve won a prize or lottery you don’t remember entering, but you must pay fees or taxes before you get the payout. The scammer may ask for your banking details “to deposit your winnings,” but the only money that moves is yours.
New Job
You see a posting or hear from a “recruiter” offering high‑pay work, then they ask you for your Social Security number, checking account number, or upfront fees for equipment or training.
Online Shopping and Marketplace
You find an amazing deal and the seller insists you pay with gift cards, wire transfers, or payment apps. After you send the money, your order never arrives or the item is nothing like advertised—and the seller disappears.
Refund
You’re told you’re owed a refund or that someone sent you money by mistake. The scammer walks you through steps to “fix” it but, in reality, you’re sending your own money out.
Tech‑Support
You see a scary pop‑up or get a call saying your electronic device is infected and only a technician can help. The scammer asks for remote access and payment, giving them a way into your personal information and accounts.
Investment
You hear about a “can’t lose” investment with promises of huge profits. You’re pressured to act quickly and keep it quiet; however, once you invest, the opportunity goes away.
Fraud Protection Tips
Knowing about common scams is the first step. Putting simple habits in place is what keeps you protected. Try these everyday fraud protection tips.
- Slow down when something feels urgent: Scammers rely on pressure. Any demand to act “right now” is a signal to pause.
- Verify using a trusted source: If someone contacts you about your account, stop the conversation. Call back using the number on the back of your debit or credit card, or go directly to the official website or app.
- Never share passwords, PINs, or one‑time codes: Your credit union, other financial institutions, and government agencies will not ask for your passwords or security codes.
- Watch for phishing scams: Fake emails and texts may look real, but they’re designed to steal your information. Avoid clicking unexpected links, and go directly to the official website or app instead.
- Treat payment apps, gift cards, and crypto like cash: Only use them with people you know and trust. If someone insists you pay this way, it’s a red flag.
- Use strong passwords and turn on extra security: Create unique passwords and turn on multi‑factor authentication whenever possible. This adds a layer of protection.
- Limit what you share online: Keep personal details—like your full birthdate, address, or pet names—off public profiles. Scammers use this information to guess passwords and security questions.
- Check your financial accounts regularly: Set transaction alerts and review your statements so you can catch suspicious activity early. If you notice unusual activity, lock your debit card through Online or Mobile Banking or call your credit union or bank right away.
- Be skeptical of “too good to be true” offers: Guaranteed high returns, huge prizes, or “easy money” jobs are classic scam setups.
- Ask for a second opinion: If something doesn’t feel right, talk it over with someone you trust before you act. A quick gut check can stop a scam.
Reporting Fraud: Steps to Take Immediately
If you suspect fraud or a scam, act quickly. Reporting it can help protect you and others.
- Contact your financial institution right away. If you get a suspicious call, email or text claiming to be from Coast Central Credit Union, follow the guidance provided on our website.
- Secure your accounts and cards.
- Report the incident to the Federal Trade Commission, even if you didn’t lose money.
- If you believe your identity has been stolen, you can also visit IdentityTheft.gov for a personalized recovery plan.
- Monitor your accounts for unusual activity.
Taking these steps early can reduce the impact and support fraud prevention efforts across your community.
Fraud Prevention and Your Credit Union
You don’t have to handle fraud prevention on your own. Coast Central is here with tools and support to help you stay protected every day, including:
- Fraud protection resources, including information on the latest scams
- Account alerts through Online and Mobile Banking
- Member assistance if you need help reviewing a suspicious transaction
If something doesn’t feel right—even if you’re not sure—reach out. You can review your accounts anytime online or in our mobile app, or contact us for help taking the next step.
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