Holiday Scams

Hacking. When you bank or shop on public Wi-Fi networks, hackers can use keylogging software to capture everything you type, including your name, debit card account number, and PIN.

Phishing. Be wary of messages soliciting any information. Emails can look like they’re from legitimate sources but are from scammers. If you click on an embedded link and enter your personal information, that data can go straight to criminals. Commonly used in 2023: Missed Delivery, Gift Card Scams, Fake Charities, Fraudulent Seasonal Jobs. 

Fake online stores or "lookalike" stores. Be on the lookout for online stores that are either entirely fake or made to look like legitimate stores. Watch out for red flags, such as deeply discounted prices. Be particularly careful with social media ads that link you to bogus online stores or product listings. 

Ways to Protect Yourself....

• If you have a StagePoint Credit Card, download the free StagePoint Wallet mobile app to check your account balance, manage alerts and controls, turn your card on/off, and report your card if it's lost or stolen - all from one, easy-to-use platform. Download on Apple or Android
• Shop on secure websites with private Wi-Fi. 
• Use the StagePoint FCU Mobile app for added security. 
• When you are using your debit card and immediately receive a phone call or a text from an 800 #, please answer it. It could be the fraud department asking if the charge is yours. 
• Monitor your accounts closely, especially during the holidays when most scams occur. Notify us immediately if you see unknown activity. 
• Don't send gift cards, checks, money orders, wire money, or give your bank account information to a stranger. 
• Never give out your login and/or password information to anyone. 
• If it's too good to be true, it's likely a scam. 
• We've partnered with IdentityIQ services to offer $1 million in identity theft insurance, dark web monitoring, real-time fraud, Social Security alerts, and much more. Rates begin at only $4.99 per month for members of StagePoint. Click for more info.