Tips to Identify and Protect Yourself from Fraud

By: US Bank

This time of year, the US Bank branch on campus at Gonzaga sees an increase in fraudulent account activity and scams. Fraud and scams come in many forms. Some common ones include phone calls where someone poses as the IRS, saying that you owe the IRS money and making various threats if you don’t pay. Another common scam is a solicitation to earn quick money that often sounds too good to be true. Your student is overpaid with a bad check and asked to send back the money that they were overpaid. They then discover that the original money was fraudulent, after they have parted with their own personal funds. Also, students should be wary of phishing, where you receive an email asking you to verify account information or to click on a link. Unfortunately, fraudsters can be very clever and convincing, but the good news is that there are many ways you can help prevent falling victim to scams and fraud.

First, keep a close eye on your account activity through your mobile banking app or online. Talk to an employee at a local branch as soon as you see anything suspicious.

Don’t give in to pressure on phone calls and don’t be afraid to hang up and consult a local bank.

Listen for red flags like requesting you to send money through a wire or prepaid cards/gift cards.

Research opportunities before claiming any prizes, checks, etc.

Click here and visit US Bank for more information on how to protect yourself from fraud and scams.

Students should always feel free to come to the US Bank branch at Gonzaga if they have any questions or concerns! We have prevented students and customers from losing up to thousands of dollars from scams and fraud.