Fraud Tips & Common Scams

What is It?

Phishing happens when someone impersonates a trusted organization through email, text, or fake websites to steal your personal or financial information.

How to Protect Yourself:

• Don’t click links in messages you weren’t expecting.

• Hover over links to check the real URL.

• Never share one-time passcodes or online banking credentials.

What to Do If It Happens.

If you clicked a link or shared information, immediately change your online banking password and contact us so we can secure your account.

What is It?

Social engineering involves manipulating you into giving information or transferring money by pretending to be someone you trust, like a family member or a Red Canoe employee.

How to Protect Yourself:

• Verify requests through a known, trusted contact method.

• Slow down when someone asks for sensitive info.

• Watch for unusual requests or urgency.

What to Do If It Happens.

Stop communication immediately and report the interaction. Contact us so we can review your account for unauthorized activity.

What is It?

Scammers can fake phone numbers, caller IDs, email addresses, or website URLs to make their communication look legitimate. Sometimes they even show up using what looks like our phone number.

How to Protect Yourself:

• Don't trust Caller ID alone.

• Hang up and call the organization back using a number from their official website.

• Be cautious with links and attachments. Always double check before you click.

What to Do If It Happens.

If you shared info or feel unsure, contact us right away so we can check your accounts.

What is It?

Romance scams occur when someone builds an online relationship to gain your trust, and eventually your money. Scammers often claim they’re deployed, traveling, or unable to meet in person. They will start to ask you to send money to help them pay for different things like bills.

How to Protect Yourself:

• Be wary of fast-moving online relationships.

• Never send money to someone you haven’t met.

• Watch for excuses about why they can’t video chat or meet.

What to Do If It Happens.

Stop all communication, document any messages, and report the account to the platform. Contact us if you made a payment or sent funds.

What is It?

Cryptocurrency scams often involve fake investment opportunities, impersonation of tech support, or requests to pay in cryptocurrency for “urgent” issues or guaranteed returns.

How to Protect Yourself:

• No legitimate company will demand crypto as the only payment method.

• Be cautious of “guaranteed” investment returns.

• Don’t share wallet information or seed phrases.

What to Do If It Happens.

Crypto transactions typically can’t be reversed. Report the scam to the platform immediately and contact us to discuss any linked account transactions.

Please also report to the FBI by using the link below.

What is It?

Tap payment schemes target contactless payment methods, like credit or debit cards, mobile wallets, or smart devices. Scammers may use stolen card details or devices to make unauthorized transactions without your knowledge.

How to Protect Yourself:

• Keep your contactless cards and devices secure and never leave them unattended.

• Monitor your account regularly for unfamiliar transactions.

• Use multi-factor authentication on mobile wallets and devices whenever possible.

What to Do If It Happens.

Report any suspicious or unauthorized transactions to your bank immediately. Disable lost or stolen cards or devices, and monitor your accounts for further unusual activity.