Protect Yourself From Fraud and Scams
The fall season is often when we see an increasing trend in scams and fraud attempts. At O Bee, we safeguard your accounts through a multi-layered security strategy. We are highly successful in detecting and preventing fraud attempts in order to protect members. However, it’s equally important that our members are educated about how to spot potential fraud and scams. Here are a few things to watch for:
Who Are the Targets?
The Unemployed:
Job offers don’t come unsolicited. If you’re job-hunting, be cautious of “dream positions” you never applied for. Scammers also exploit legitimate job search sites by posting fake listings—even for jobs you did apply to. They may send convincing onboarding packets, requests for upfront fees, or ask for sensitive information such as your SSN or bank account details. Always research the company independently and verify offers through official channels before sharing personal information.
The Aging:
Our older population is often targeted with urgent phone calls, pop-up alerts, romance scams, person-in-need scams, or government impersonation schemes. In person-in-need scams, fraudsters pretend to be a grandchild, relative, or friend in urgent trouble—such as being stranded, arrested, or hospitalized—and pressure the victim to send money quickly. Others may pose as Law Enforcement, Social Security, Medicare, or the IRS demanding payment or personal details. Romance scams exploit emotional trust to request money or sensitive information. It’s important to educate and check in with aging family members who may spend time online and be more vulnerable.
Children and Teens:
Young people are more likely to share personal information with strangers in gaming, chat, or social apps. Scammers use this information for identity theft or to set up fraudulent accounts. Viral video and social media scams can also lure kids into clicking malicious links, downloading harmful apps, or participating in fake “challenges” that compromise their security. Teaching kids online safety and encouraging open conversations about what they see online is essential.
Once someone becomes a victim, recovery from financial loss and identity misuse can take years.
Most Common Scams We See
Job Offer Scams:
Fraudsters pose as legitimate employers or recruiters, often through job boards or unsolicited emails. They may send fake job postings or onboarding packets, then request sensitive information or upfront fees for “training” or “equipment” that never materialize.
Sweetheart Scams: Scammers pretend to be an online partner, then pressure victims into sending money, gifts, or personal details.
Fraudulent Investments:
Scammers pitch “too good to be true” opportunities—often involving cryptocurrency, high-yield returns, or exclusive ventures. Victims are persuaded to send funds or transfer crypto, only to find the investment doesn’t exist and the money has vanished.
Computer Takeover (Pop-Up Scams):
A screen alert says your computer is infected, urging you to call a fake support number. Scammers then gain remote access to steal money and data.
Government Impersonation Scams:
Fraudsters pose as the IRS, Social Security, or law enforcement, threatening arrest, fines, or benefit suspensions unless immediate payment is made.
Phishing & Impersonation Scams:
Scammers send texts, emails, or social media messages designed to trick you into clicking malicious links or sharing personal information. These messages often appear to come from your financial institution or another reputable company, claiming your account is locked, there’s suspicious activity, or you need to “verify” details—when in reality they’re fraudulent attempts to steal your credentials or funds.
Regardless of the scam type, they often involve unexpected instructions—such as cashing a check, wiring money, buying gift cards, depositing cash into a cryptocurrency ATM, purchasing gold, or sharing sensitive information. Once funds are sent, recovery is rarely possible. Education and early detection remain your most effective defenses
10 Ways to Protect Yourself from Fraud & Scams
- Never share personal or financial information with unverified sources.
- Don’t open unsolicited emails or click unknown links.
- Never send money or gift cards to someone you don’t know.
- Keep devices updated with the latest operating systems and use two-factor authentication.
- Use strong, unique passwords for every account.
- Set strict privacy settings on social media.
- Stay informed about new scam tactics like pop-ups and impersonation calls. Talk with elderly family members about common scams and encourage them to verify requests
- Educate yourself and your loved ones on safe online practices and take steps to protect your personal information
- Reach out for help! Anyone who tells you not to notify your bank, the authorities, or your family is trying to scam you. Don’t stay silent!
- If contacted by a financial institution, government agency or company, hang up and call back using official contact information.
Remember: Whether it’s a “perfect” romance, a high-paying job with little experience, or a fast-moving investment opportunity, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Scammers use urgency and temptation to get their way, and they are highly skilled at deceiving their victims. Always pause, verify, and never send money or personal info without checking first.
Want to learn more? Check out our Fraud Fighters blog for more articles to help you keep yourself and your loved ones safe from fraudsters and scammers.