Fraud isn’t just a buzzword — it’s a growing threat. In the past few years, scams have surged in sophistication, targeting everyday people with tactics that look and sound more legit than ever. From fake government calls to sneaky text messages, fraudsters are getting creative — and relentless. That’s why Archer Credit Union is stepping up as your financial sidekick, helping you spot the red flags, shut down the scams, and keep your money safe. In this article, we’ll walk you through the Top 5 Clues You’re Being Scammed, crack open a Fraud File case study, and share smart, simple tips to protect yourself — even if you’ve already been targeted. Because when it comes to fraud, knowledge isn’t just power — it’s protection.

1. The message feels personal . . . but you didn't ask for it.

Scammers are getting more and more slick with personalized messages that look like they're from your credit union, a delivery service, or even a friend. They use stolen data to make it feel legit — but it's just bait. If you didn't start the conversation, don't ever trust the message! Always verify through official channels.

Clue! You're contacted out of the blue and asked to click, call, or confirm something sensitive.

2. The website looks legit . . . but it isn't.

Fake banking websites and apps are getting scarily convincing. One typo in the web address and you’re handing over your login info to a scammer.

Clue! You clicked a link from a text or email.

3. You're asked to "reverse" a payment.

Scammers love Zelle®, Venmo®, and wire transfers because once the money’s gone — it’s gone.

Clue! Someone tells you to send money to fix a "fraudulent" transaction.

4. The text message feels urgent.

“Your account is locked!” “Suspicious activity detected!” These smishing scams want you to panic and click fast.

Clue! The message includes a link or phone number you don’t recognize.

5. The check clears . . . then bounces.

Whether it’s a fake job, prize, or online sale, scammers send phony checks and ask you to send money back.

Clue! You’re asked to refund part of a payment before the check fully clears.

Scammers don't just cast wide nets — they craft convincing stories designed to catch you off guard. In this section, we're cracking open a real-life fraud scenario to show how these schemes unfold, what red flags to watch for, and how quick thinking (and a little help from Archer Credit Union) can turn a close call into a case closed. Let's dive into the details and learn how to outsmart the scammers at their own game!

Case Summary: A member receives a phone call from someone claiming to be from the IRS, warning them of unpaid taxes and threatening arrest. A few days later, they get a text from "social security" saying their social security number has been suspended due to suspicious activity.

Evidence Collected:

Exhibit A: The IRS Call

"This is Agent Daniels from the IRS. You owe $2,487 in back taxes. If you don't pay today, we'll issue a warrant for your arrest."

Exhibit B: The SSA Text

"Your Social Security Number has been suspended due to fraud. Call 1-800-XXX-XXXX immediately to resolve."

Exhibit C: The Payment Request

Both messages demanded payment via gift cards or wire transfer — methods the government never uses!

Red Flags Identified:

1. Threats of arrest or legal action — Real government agencies don’t operate this way.
2. Unsolicited contact — The IRS and SSA will never call, text, or email out of the blue.
3. Suspicious payment methods — Gift cards, crypto, or wire transfers are scammer favorites.
4. Spoofed phone numbers — scammers often fake caller IDs to look official.
5. Urgency and secrecy — They pressure you to act fast and not tell anyone.

Detective Tips:

• Hang up. If someone claims to be from the IRS or SSA and demands payment, it’s a scam.
• Verify independently. Use official websites like irs.gov or ssa.gov to check your status.
• Never pay with gift cards or crypto. No legitimate agency will ask for these.
• Report it. Help others by reporting scams to the SSA OIG or IRS fraud hotline.

Case Status: CLOSED!

Thanks to a cool head and a quick call to Archer Credit Union for advice, this member avoided a costly trap!

Even the sharpest detectives can get caught off guard — and falling victim to fraud doesn't mean the case is closed. Whether money was lost or personal information was compromised, there are smart steps you can take to limit the damage and get back on track. In this section, we'll share practical tips to help you recover, protect your identity, and lean on Archer Credit Union as your trusted partner in fraud defense!

Call Archer Credit Union and any other financial institutions you bank at and have them delete online and mobile banking access. If money has left your account, the chances of the fraudsters accessing your online banking account is very high. By removing this service, you’ll cut that access avenue to the fraudster.

If money has left your account without your authorization via electronic transfer, check, or wire, your account number and routing number have been compromised. Contact Archer Credit Union as soon as possible to get a new account number so that the you don’t lose any more money to fraud.

If your personal, identifying information has been compromised, we highly recommend going to IdentityTheft.gov to report your case. The FTC has also put together a very thorough personalized Recovery Plan based on the information you provide, which can be invaluable in thinking about all of the different vendors and agencies to contact after your identity has been compromised.

If your money has been stolen, you also will want to report the case of fraud to the FTC at ReportFraud.FTC.gov. This will help the federal government catch the scammers and stop others from becoming a victim as well. There are also helpful tools and suggestions available at this website as well.

And the last report we highly recommend you file is probably the most important – if your money was stolen, you’ll want to report that to your local law enforcement agency. Once you do, ask for a copy of the police report and provide that to Archer Credit Union.

No matter what, one of the best ways you can protect yourself from falling victim to fraud in the future is to set up account alerts on your account with Archer Credit Union. You can find out more about Account Alerts here, but we’ve compiled a list below of some of the most crucial alerts when it comes to protecting against fraud and identity theft:

• Address Changed: to be notified when the address on file has been changed. This can be helpful to stop fraudsters from account takeover.
• Email Address Changed: to be notified when the address on file has been changed. This can be helpful to stop fraudsters from account takeover.
• Phone Number Changed: to be notified when the address on file has been changed. This can be helpful to stop fraudsters from account takeover.
• ACH Activity: to be notified any time any ACH activity occurs on your account.
• ACH Withdrawal Above: to be notified any time an ACH debit over a predetermined threshold set by you clears your account.
• Debit Above: to be notified any time any debits occur on your account.
• Audio/Online/Mobile Banking Login: to be notified any time your online or mobile banking account is accessed.
• Audio/Online/Mobile Banking Login Failed: to be notified any time a failed online or mobile banking account attempt occurred.

Falling victim to fraud can feel personal — like someone broke into your financial life and violated your trust. But it's important to remember: scammers are skilled, and anyone can be targeted. If you've been affected, talking to someone at Archer Credit Union can be a powerful first step. Our team is here to listen, guide, and help you recover — all in a confidential, judgement-free space. Because we understand that protecting your peace of mind is just as important as protecting your money!