Scammers love Halloween, not for the costumes or candy, but for the fear they can stir up.
Like ghosts in the dark, they appear suddenly with urgent messages meant to startle you into acting fast. A text warning your account is locked. A caller pretending to be the IRS. An email promising a prize if you “JUST CLICK HERE.” Each one is a trick designed to spook you into giving up your information or money.
The good news is you can unmask these scams. With the right approach, you can spot scams early, protect your finances, and stay in control.
How fear becomes a scam
Fear motivates quick reactions, something scammers count on. Their messages often sound urgent, threatening, or too good to be true. If they make you believe something bad will happen right now, you’re more likely to respond without checking the facts.
When you recognize their playbook, you can spot the pattern and shut it down. Instead of letting fear push you, pause and look closer.
Slow down and verify
Scammers push you to rush. A few minutes of calm research can expose the truth.
The best defense against fake fraud and scammers starts with slowing down. If a message feels threatening or makes you panic, don’t respond right away.
- Pause: Give yourself time to think.
- Verify: Use official contact information from your financial institution or government agency, not the number or link in the suspicious message. For SECU members, use our Virtual Financial Center or call 800-879-7328 to talk with our team.
How to keep your money secure
Strengthen your financial foundation so scammers find fewer opportunities. Safe, insured accounts give you confidence and stability. We have accounts that help protect your money while building peace of mind.
- Share savings: Keep funds safe and earn dividends.
- Money market: Earn more while keeping access to your money.
- Certificates of deposit (CDs): Lock in growth with federally insured security.
Why awareness matters all year
Scams spike during the holidays, but they do not stop once the decorations come down. Two November observances remind us to stay alert: International Fraud Awareness Week and National Long-Term Care Awareness Month.
International Fraud Awareness Week
November 10-16 marks International Fraud Awareness Week, a global effort by the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners. It calls on organizations and individuals to share prevention tips, recognize red flags, and talk openly about risks.
National Long-Term Care Awareness Month
National Long-Term Care Awareness Month highlights the importance of planning ahead. Long-term care costs can strain families, but preparing now can ease future stress. Using tools like share savings, money market accounts, or certificates of deposit helps protect your resources and support your long-term plans.
Awareness is your best defense. Preparation keeps you protected.
Stay protected with the help of SECU
Fraud and scammers count on fear to do the hard work. When you know their tactics, take time to verify, and use secure savings accounts, you turn the tables. Instead of reacting to pressure, you act with confidence and control.
This season, let the fraud scammers do the scaring. You have better things to focus on, like keeping enough candy in the bowl.
We’re here to help you stay safe, protect your money, and build a strong financial future.
