Fraud Prevention Month: Staying Safe on Your Financial Journey

At InRoads Credit Union, we believe financial well-being starts with trust, education, and having a partner who helps you navigate life’s road ahead. March is Fraud Prevention Month, a time to help our members stay informed, confident, and protected against scams that can disrupt your financial journey. 

Fraudsters are constantly changing tactics — using phone calls, emails, texts, and social media to trick people into sharing personal information or sending money. Staying aware is one of the most powerful tools you have. 

 

Government Imposter Scams: What You Should Know

One of the most common scams involves criminals pretending to be from the Social Security Administration (SSA). 

Scammers may claim: 

• • There’s a problem with your Social Security number
  • Your benefits are suspended 
  • You’re facing arrest or legal action
  • You must confirm personal information immediately
  • You need to send money to resolve an issue 

These messages are designed to create urgency and fear — pressuring you to act quickly without verifying the source. 

Here’s the truth: The Social Security Administration will not call, text, or email you to demand immediate payment, threaten arrest, or ask you to pay with gift cards, cryptocurrency, wire transfers, or prepaid debit cards. 

If something feels off, it probably is.

 

Red Flags to Watch For

As your trusted financial partner, we encourage you to slow down and look for these warning signs: 

• • Pressure to act immediately
  • Requests for secrecy
  • Threats involving arrest, lawsuits, or benefit suspension
  • Instructions to move money quickly
  • Unexpected requests for personal or account information

Fraudsters rely on emotion. Taking a moment to pause can protect your finances. 

Read more about scammers targeting social security and VA benefits. 

 

Smart Steps to Protect Your Financial Well-Being

Your financial journey matters. Here are practical ways to stay protected: 

1. Safeguard Your Personal Information
Never share your Social Security number, online banking credentials, debit card PIN, or one-time security codes unless you initiated the contact and trust the source. 

2. Verify Before You Respond
If you receive a suspicious message claiming to be from a government agency, business, or even InRoads, contact the organization directly using a trusted phone number or official website.

3. Strengthen Your Digital Security
Small security steps can make a big difference. Try:

• • • • Using strong, unique passwords
      • Enabling multi-factor authentication when available
      • Keeping your devices updated

4. Monitor Your Accounts Regularly
Review your InRoads accounts frequently through online or mobile banking. If you notice anything unusual, contact us right away. Early detection helps minimize impact.

5. Start the Conversation

Share scam awareness tips with family members, especially older adults and young adults who may be more vulnerable to certain fraud tactics. 

To help you get started, here’s AARP’s top tips for senior safety online. 

 

If You Suspect Fraud

If you believe you’ve encountered a Social Security–related scam, report it to the appropriate authorities. If your InRoads account or personal financial information may be compromised, contact us immediately so we can help you take the right next steps. 

 

Moving Forward Together

Fraud Prevention Month is a reminder that protecting your financial well-being is a shared effort. At InRoads Credit Union, we’re committed to being your trusted partner — helping you stay informed, secure, and confident at every stage of life. 

If you ever have questions about a suspicious call, email, or transaction, reach out. Together we will #SlamTheScam and help you stay safely on your financial path.