Scams exist even in the best of times. But in our current pandemic crisis of high stress and financial uncertainty, even the savviest consumers can fall victim to fraud. The best way to protect yourself is knowing how to spot a scam. As always, call us right away if you notice fraudulent charges or unusual activity on your First PREMIER Bank credit card.
PREMIER also offers tools to help you stay informed about your account. Stay on top of your PREMIER credit card account and be alerted of new activity by signing up for account alerts. Visit mypremiercreditcard.com/Home/ProductsAndServices to learn more and sign up.
Scams playing off the current national coronavirus pandemic are prevalent. Some specific things to watch out for include:
- Stimulus or economic relief scams. The government will not request a fee in order for you to receive your funds. They also won’t ask for your personal, bank or credit card information.
- Financial cons. Be alert of fake bank alerts. Con artists are telling customers that their account is being suspended due to coronavirus-related shutdowns or service changes. The alerts include a web address set up by the thieves where the concerned customer can enter their legitimate bank credentials.
- Fake charities. Fraudsters are playing on consumer emotions in order to steal money or get access to financial information. Make sure you research before you donate.
Additionally, The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has a list of things you can do to avoid scams.
- Ignore offers for vaccinations and home test kits.
Scammers are selling products to treat or prevent COVID-19 without proof that they work. - Hang up on robocalls.
Scammers use illegal sales calls to get your money and your personal information. - Watch out for phishing emails and text messages.
Don’t click on links in emails or texts you didn’t expect - Research before you donate.
Don’t let anyone rush you into donating. Get tips on donating wisely at ftc.gov/charity. - Stay in the know.
Go to ftc.gov/coronavirus for the latest information on coronavirus scams. Sign up to receive alerts from the FTC at ftc.gov/subscribe.
This information is presented for educational purposes only. It is not intended as, nor should it be construed to be, legal, financial or other professional advice. Please consult with your attorney or financial advisor to discuss any legal or financial issues involved with credit decisions.
