Scams and How to Avoid Them

Young child and cat typing on a laptop

This time of year could bring on an increase in scam attempts and Expree Credit Union wants to remind our members to be alert.

First, know the red flags to look out for.

The most common scams will target you through fake emails, (Phishing) fake texts, (SMSishing) or voice calls (Vishing). These scam attempts will typically ask for you to to click on a link or will ask for your account information. If you aren’t 100% sure of the security of the email or text, call the sender or call a reputable number for that business to confirm. You can report scams to the Office of the Attorney General at 888-432-9257 or file a scam complaint online.

Want to know what scams are going on in Kentucky? Sign up for Scam Alerts to be aware of ongoing scams.

  • Text KYOAG Scam to GOV311 (468311),
  • Click ​here to sign up with your mobile phone number or email address

At Expree, we work hard to ensure we keep your account information safe and secure. Now, it’s time to do your part to protect that information. Here is what you can do now to help fight fraud:

  • Don’t click on unknown links in emails
  • Don’t give personal information or account information to unsolicited emails or texts
  • Call Expree to verify unknown emails or other methods of communication about account information (502-564-5597)

Here are a few things you should NEVER do over the phone:

  • Don’t always trust Caller ID
  • Don’t give codes or any form of identification to unsolicited callers
  • Don’t pay with a card or account information over the phone
  • NEVER give remote access to your computer

In addition, be aware of door-to-door solicitations. Report door-to-door sales and solicitations to the state’s noncompliance hotline at 1-833-597-2337.

Finally, here are a few more guidelines on how to avoid scams:

  • Don’t be pressured to act immediately
  • Don’t send gift cards for people you don’t know, or give strangers gift cards as payment
  • Don’t return funds for overpayment or cash checks for strangers
  • Don’t “Pay Up-front” for unknown callers or emails
  • Don’t wire money without verifying the instructions

These scams are going to be more common with the current state of affairs. It’s important to know different ways to protect your personal information. It’s also good to know that if your not 100% about the information in an email/text/call, take time to do a little research, call a friend or family member, or give us a call. We’re in this together and you remain our top priority.