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New Year, New Scams: Protect Yourself in 2025

As the new year begins, it’s the perfect time to refresh our goals, reflect on successes, and prepare for the challenges ahead. Unfortunately, scammers are also stepping up their game with new tactics to target individuals and businesses. We’re committed to keeping you informed and empowered to safeguard your finances.

Here’s what to watch for in 2025 and how to protect yourself:

1. AI-Powered Scams

The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) is making scams more sophisticated. Criminals are now using AI tools to mimic voices, create realistic emails, and generate fake videos to deceive victims.

What to watch for:

  • Unusual messages from loved ones asking for money. Scammers may clone a family member’s voice using AI.

  • Hyper-realistic phishing emails or texts impersonating companies you trust.

How to protect yourself:

  • Always verify unusual requests through a secondary method, such as calling the person directly.

  • Look for red flags like typos, odd phrasing, or requests to click on suspicious links.

2. Investment and Cryptocurrency Scams

With the growing popularity of cryptocurrency and new investment platforms, scammers are luring victims with promises of quick, high returns.

What to watch for:

  • Unsolicited offers to invest in “guaranteed” opportunities.

  • Fake crypto trading platforms and fraudulent social media ads.

How to protect yourself:

  • Research investment opportunities thoroughly before committing.

  • Be skeptical of any promises that sound too good to be true.

  • Never share personal information or transfer funds to unverified platforms.

3. Tax Season Scams

As tax season approaches, scammers pose as the IRS or tax preparers to steal sensitive information or funds.

What to watch for:

  • Emails, phone calls, or texts claiming to be from the IRS and demanding immediate payment.

  • Fake tax refund offers designed to trick you into revealing personal information.

How to protect yourself:

  • Remember: The IRS will never call, text, or email to demand payment.

  • File your taxes early to reduce the risk of fraud.

  • Use reputable tax preparers and ensure websites are secure before submitting any information.

4. Online Shopping and Delivery Scams

Scammers are taking advantage of online shopping habits by creating fake websites and delivery notifications.

What to watch for:

  • Unfamiliar websites with prices that seem too good to be true.

  • Fake shipping notifications claiming there’s an issue with your delivery.

How to protect yourself:

  • Shop only on trusted websites and verify URLs.

  • Avoid clicking on links from unexpected emails or texts. Go directly to the retailer’s website instead.

  • Use credit cards for online purchases when possible, as they offer better fraud protection.

5. Social Media Scams

Social media remains a favorite tool for scammers to spread fake offers, impersonate accounts, or gain access to personal data.

What to watch for:

  • Messages from accounts impersonating trusted companies or individuals.

  • “Too good to be true” giveaways that ask for your personal details.

How to protect yourself:

  • Avoid sharing sensitive information through social media.

  • Verify the authenticity of accounts before engaging.

  • Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) to secure your social media profiles.

6. Charity Scams

Scammers often exploit people’s generosity by setting up fake charities, especially following disasters or during the holiday season.

What to watch for:

  • High-pressure donation requests via phone, email, or social media.

  • Organizations that can’t provide details about their mission or how donations will be used.

How to protect yourself:

  • Research charities on trusted sites like Charity Navigator.

  • Donate directly through the charity’s official website.

  • Be cautious with unsolicited donation requests.

Stay Safe with AltaOne

At AltaOne, we prioritize your financial security. If you notice suspicious activity or have questions about protecting yourself from scams, we’re here to help.

Proactive steps you can take:

  • Monitor your accounts regularly through AltaOne’s online and mobile banking tools.

  • Set up alerts for account activity to detect unusual transactions quickly.

  • Report any fraudulent activity to us immediately.

By staying informed and vigilant, you can outsmart scammers and protect what matters most. Here’s to a safe and prosperous 2025!

If you think you’ve been targeted by a scam, contact us immediately at (800) 433-9727.

For more tips and updates on financial security, follow AltaOne Federal Credit Union on social media or visit our website.

Christopher Lowe