Summer Scam Alert: 8 Tricks Fraudsters Are Using Right Now

Summer is a time for vacations, road trips, concerts, and family fun. It can also be a busy season for scammers. When people are booking trips, buying tickets, moving, or managing higher seasonal costs, fraudsters may look for ways to take advantage.

Here are eight scams to watch for this summer and simple ways to protect yourself.

1. Fake Travel Deals - Scammers may advertise discounted flights, hotels, cruises, or vacation packages that are not real. Before booking, research the company, visit the official website directly, and be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true.

2. Vacation Rental Scams - Fake rental listings can use stolen photos or copied property details. Be careful if someone pressures you to pay quickly or asks you to send money outside a trusted booking platform.

3. Fake Event Tickets - Concerts, festivals, and sporting events are popular in the summer. Buy tickets from official sellers or verified resale sites, and be cautious of strangers selling tickets through social media.

4. Toll and Traffic Text Scams - Scammers may send fake texts claiming you owe money for a toll, ticket, or DMV fee. Do not click unexpected links. Visit the official agency website directly to check.

5. QR Code Scams - QR codes are common at restaurants, parking meters, and events. Scammers may place fake codes over real ones to steal payment or personal information. Check for tampering before scanning.

6. Moving and Rental Scams - Summer is a popular moving season, which can lead to fake apartment or home listings. Never send a deposit before confirming the property and the person listing it are legitimate.

7.  Utility Shutoff Scams - Scammers may claim your power, water, or gas will be shut off unless you pay immediately. Contact your utility company directly using the number on your bill or its official website.

8.  Protect Yourself Before You Pay - Scammers often use urgency to pressure people into acting quickly. Before clicking a link, scanning a code, sending money, or sharing personal information, take a moment to verify the request.

Summer should be a season of enjoyment, not financial stress. Staying alert can help protect your money and personal information.

If you believe you shared account information or sent money to a scammer, contact our credit union immediately. If the affected account is with another financial institution, contact that institution right away.