Scammers are always inventing new ways to get their hands on your money and may use a number of reasons to get what they want. For example:

• “The company has been a victim of fraud.”
• “Unusual transactions have been detected in your account.”
• “A new law requires the institution to request that you update your personal information.”

If you click on a link in the e-mail or text message in order to fill out a form, you may see a replica of your institution's website. Any information you enter on this FAKE website would go directly into the fraudsters' database. The crooks would then be able to empty your account, steal your identity and cause you a lot of problems for years to come.

Some fraudsters add an attachment to their e-mail messages. When you click on it, malware is secretly downloaded to your computer or cell phone.

If you weren’t told about the message before you received it, immediately report the phishing attempt to the institution or organization involved. Make sure to use the telephone number on the institution’s or organization’s website, not the one in the e-mail message or text message.

Type the complete address for the website you want to visit.

You receive a phone call from a stranger offering you a once-in-a-lifetime investment opportunity. In addition to yielding a much higher return than any other form of investment, the person tells you the investment carries no risk.

Fake voicemail messages

You have a voicemail message.

“Linda, it’s Paul. I lost your old number and Jane told me that this is your new one. I hope I got it right. Do you remember the guy who helped me with my investments? He gave my father a hot tip. The investment doubled in less than a month and, if I remember correctly, you were disappointed that I didn’t share the tip with you. Well, I have a new hot tip from my friend.

Company XYZ is about to launch a revolutionary product; it will be announced later this week. Now’s the time to buy shares: the price will soon increase dramatically. My friend says we have to invest right away. I’m buying some tomorrow and so’s my dad. I’m on the road today, so call my cell at XXX-XXXX. Talk to you soon.”

You don’t know Paul or Linda. The caller is trying to manipulate you. If you call the number left on your voicemail, you’ll be offered a (fraudulent) investment opportunity. If you take it, you’ll lose your money. The same message may have been left in thousands of voicemail boxes. This scam is also carried out via e-mail, text messaging and the Internet.