Have you received a call or text from an unknown source? One where the person on the other end apologizes for “having the wrong number” but then keeps the lines of communication open? Have you used a dating app to find that special someone? If so, you could be at risk of losing some or all of your hard-earned money.

Fraudsters have been very successful at emotional manipulation to dupe people into believing that what they are telling/selling is legitimate. They start by getting to know you and may post or send a picture of “themselves” or with “their family”, effectively building a relationship with you over a short time (could be days, weeks, or months) in order to gain your trust.

Below are some of the tactics that fraudsters will use, but keep in mind that fraudsters are very clever and come up with new tactics all the time.

  • Kindness/Generosity.  The fraudster may offer to send you a small amount of money and ask where to send it in order to obtain your account information. Once they have your information, they may offer to wire you money, asking you to keep some it for yourself and send the rest back to them or some other beneficiary. They may want you to purchase gifts cards and to send them the card credentials once you’ve bought them.  They may also ask you to send bitcoin/cryptocurrency investments, or ask you to deposit fictitious checks.
  • Playing on Your Sympathy.  The fraudster will indicate that they are distressed because they have some urgent need requiring money. They may ask you to send them money for food, medical needs, a death in the family, etc.
  • Wants/Desires.  The fraudster may appear to be very wealthy, showing off fancy clothes and accessories, a luxury car, or a nice big house. They do this to make you think that they are successful in their “investments” so that you will invest in it too.

Ways to Avoid the Scam

Fraudsters are willing to do anything to gain your trust. They are very convincing and manipulating.  Do not give out your account information under any circumstances. Avoid engaging in conversations/virtual relationships with unknown persons/businesses via calls, emails or texts.  End all contact immediately.  Never send money in any form to anyone other than a close friend or family member (someone who is physically in front of you or whom you’ve met in person). Trust your gut, and if it sounds too good to be true it probably is.  

What to Do if You are a Victim of the Scam

Contact Duke Credit Union to shut down your card(s) and/or change your account.  Contact Law Enforcement to provide them with as much detail as possible about the scam.