Scam Season Is Every Season
Scammers don’t take holidays; they look forward to them!
Holidays and afterhours are the most vulnerable times for them to reach their target. Learn the red flags, how to prevent scams, and what to do if something slips through by remembering P.A.W.S.
“Your card ending in [fake last 4 digits] was used for a $1,287 purchase at a store. If this was not you, call our fraud team immediately at 888-XXX-XXXX.”
“We couldn’t deliver your package. Please pay the $1.25 redelivery fee to schedule another attempt.”
“Hi! It’s your cousin. I’m locked out of my account. Can you send me the code you’re about to receive
Sound familiar? You’re not alone. These scams are becoming more common and more convincing. Some even use AI to mimic voices, change caller ID information, or use personal information to create a sense of urgency.
The good news: there are ways to protect yourself. We’re here to help you stay safe. Here is a simple scam guide using P.A.W.S.
P is for PAUSE
Follow your Gut
If it doesn’t feel right simply hang up and alert your local branch.
If something feels suspicious, take a moment before acting. Don’t click links, send money, or share codes immediately. Scammers often try to create urgency, so you act without thinking.
Red flags to watch for:
Urgency or pressure: “Act now,” “Don’t tell anyone,” “Your account will be locked.”
Requests for money or gift cards: Especially from someone claiming to be a family member or authority.
Links to “fix” a problem: Tracking issues, missed deliveries, subscription renewals, or surprise purchases.
Requests for personal information: PINs, passcodes, account numbers, or verification codes.
Caller ID looks familiar but seems off: Scammers can fake numbers.
Messages that don’t sound like the person: Unusual tone, short messages, or odd typos.
Tip: Pause, then call us directly at (800) 696-8830 North Coast Credit Union will never ask you to send money, nor request passwords, PINs, or one-time passcodes.
A is for Ask & Verify
Always verify the request:
Contact the person, company, or organization using a trusted number. NOT the one in the suspicious message.
Talk with family members about requests for gift cards, money, or account information.
Check official emails or accounts before clicking links.
Call us directly at (800) 696-8830. North Coast Credit Union will never ask you to send money, nor request passwords, PINs, or one-time passcodes.
W is for Watch & Prevent
Reminder
We will never call before or after business hours, or on the weekends.
A few simple habits can protect you, your family, and your money:
Never share one-time codes with anyone, even if they claim to be a friend or North Coast Credit Union.
Use strong, unique passwords and turn on two-factor authentication.
Be cautious with links and QR codes from unknown senders.
Check your accounts regularly and report anything unfamiliar.
S is for Secure & Act
Mistakes happen and scammers rely on that. Act fast if you’ve shared personal information:
Contact us immediately to secure your accounts.
Change your passwords right away.
Lock your card or report it as lost/stolen through online banking.
Report the scam to North Coast Credit Union so others can be warned.
Act quickly if money was sent. Some transfers can be stopped if reported in time.
You’re never bothering us! We’d much rather help early than fix something later. If something feels off, reach out and we’ll look at it together.
Weekends & After Hours
Our contact center is open 8 AM to 6 PM, Monday – Friday. If you’re unsure about a message or call, pause and reach out during the next business day. If you know your information has been compromised, you can call the number on the back of your card anytime, 24/7, to report it as lost or stolen.
Reminder: We will never call before or after business hours, or on the weekends.
Key Takeaway
Scams can happen anytime, to anyone, anywhere. Remember PAWS:
P — Pause
A — Ask & Verify
W — Watch & Prevent
S — Secure & Act
Staying vigilant is the best way to protect yourself, your family, and your money.