Pause. Verify. Protect: Simple Ways to Outsmart Today’s Scams

A text about a suspicious purchase. A phone call from your bank. A family member who suddenly needs money. A warning that your computer has been compromised.

At first glance, any of these could seem legitimate. That’s what makes today’s scams effective.

Fraudsters have become increasingly skilled at impersonating people and organizations we know and trust. In 2025, consumers reported $15.9 billion in fraud losses to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

Those numbers are significant, but protecting yourself doesn’t have to be complicated. One of the best habits is simple:

Pause. Verify. Protect. 

 

1. Pause Before You React 

Many scams are designed to create urgency. You may be told your account has been compromised, a payment is about to process, or someone you care about needs help immediately.

The goal is to get you reacting before you have time to think.

If an unexpected call, text, email, or computer pop-up asks you to send money, provide personal information, or take immediate action, stop for a moment.

A legitimate situation can withstand a few minutes of verification.

2. Verify It Yourself 

Scammers can manipulate caller ID, create convincing emails and websites, and send messages that appear to come from legitimate organizations.
Instead of using the phone number or link provided in a suspicious message, contact the organization directly using information you already trust.
If someone claims to be calling from Fortifi Bank, hang up and call us at 855.876.1500.

 

Watch Out for Fake Computer Warnings

Scammers may display pop-up messages claiming your computer has a virus or security problem and instruct you to call a phone number for help.
Never call a phone number displayed in an unexpected computer security pop-up. Close the message, avoid clicking suspicious links, and contact a trusted technology professional if you need assistance. Never give an unfamiliar caller remote access to your computer.

The same approach applies if someone claims to be a family member. Artificial intelligence can make impersonations more convincing. If a request for money seems unusual, contact that person another way before acting.

Watch How They Ask You to Pay 

Be cautious if you’re unexpectedly asked to purchase gift cards, send cryptocurrency, wire money, use a payment app, withdraw cash, or move money to another account to “protect” it. 

Scammers often rely on urgency and unusual payment requests to keep you from stopping to question what’s happening. 

 

3. Protect Your Information 

Not every scam begins with a request for money. Sometimes the goal is to collect information that can be used to access your accounts later.

Never share your online banking password, PIN, or one-time verification code with anyone. These credentials are intended for your use and should never be given to someone contacting you.

Only provide sensitive information, such as card numbers or Social Security numbers, when you’ve independently verified the recipient and have a legitimate reason to share it.

 

If Something Doesn’t Feel Right, Ask

Scammers may pressure you to act quickly or discourage you from talking with anyone else. Some may even claim your bank is involved in the fraud and tell you not to contact your banker.

If someone tells you to keep a financial transaction secret from your bank, that’s a warning sign.

Call your bank. Talk with a family member. Ask someone you trust to look at the situation with you.

If you believe you’ve shared sensitive information, given someone access to your computer, or sent money to a scammer, contact your financial institution as soon as possible.

 

Slow Down and Stay in Control

Scams will continue to change, but one of the strongest defenses remains simple:

Slow down. Ask questions. Verify before you act.

If you’re ever unsure about a call, text, transaction, or request involving your Fortifi accounts, contact us directly at 855.876.1500. We’re always happy to help you determine whether something is legitimate.