In today’s digital age, online fraud, cyber scams, and identity theft are more common than ever. Cybercriminals continue to evolve their tactics, making it essential to stay informed and vigilant. At Nusenda Credit Union, we’re committed to helping you protect yourself and your assets. Below, we break down some of the most common scams and share practical tips to help you stay safe.
The usual suspects: phishing, quishing, smishing, and vishing
You may already be familiar with phishing scams, where scammers send emails that appear legitimate but are designed to steal personal or financial information. However, email scams are just the beginning:
- Vishing scams involve fraudulent phone calls or voicemails attempting to trick you into sharing sensitive data.
- Smishing attacks use text messages to lure you into clicking malicious links or revealing information.
- Quishing, one of the newest cyber threats, relies on malicious QR codes that lead to harmful websites or data‑collection forms.
As these tactics become more sophisticated, staying aware of how scammers operate is one of the best ways to protect your personal information and stay safe online.
Other types of scams you should know about
Romance scams
With nearly one‑third of Americans using dating apps and the majority using social media, online romance scams continue to rise. Scammers often build what appears to be a genuine emotional connection—only to eventually request money or personal details.
Red flags include someone who:
- Seems too perfect
- Moves too quickly
- Asks for financial help
Trust your instincts and report any suspicious interactions. Staying skeptical is key to preventing online fraud.
Fraudulent job postings
Fake job listings are becoming increasingly common. Be cautious of “employers” who:
- Offer to send you a check to buy equipment
- Ask you to pay upfront fees like “account activation”
- Request personal or financial information early in the hiring process
These scams are designed to steal money or identity information before victims realize the job isn’t real. Always research companies and verify job listings to avoid employment scams.
Social media marketplace scams
Buying through social media can be convenient — you can often find what you need quickly and at a great price. But these platforms have also become hotspots for online shopping scams, including fake ads, fraudulent websites, and phishing attempts designed to steal your personal information. Scammers use these tactics to pressure or mislead you into making a bad deal.
To protect yourself from social media marketplace fraud, make sure to:
- Research sellers before you buy — Look for reviews, ratings, and a history of trustworthy activity.
- Avoid sharing unnecessary personal information — Scammers often use it for identity theft or future targeting.
- Stick to known brands and verified sellers — Legitimate businesses typically have verified badges or established profiles.
Staying cautious and informed can help you shop smarter and avoid becoming a victim of social media scams.
Be alert for fraudulent senders
Remember: Nusenda Credit Union—and other legitimate financial institutions—will never call, email, or text you asking for your member number, card information, password, or PIN. Anyone requesting this information is likely attempting a scam.
To protect yourself from digital fraud and cyber threats, follow these best practices:
- Be cautious with links in emails or text messages
- Research unfamiliar companies before responding to job listings
- Regularly update and strengthen your passwords
- Monitor your account activity for anything unusual
- Trust your gut—if it seems too good to be true, it probably is
These habits help strengthen your cybersecurity awareness and reduce your risk of becoming a victim.
If you’ve been a victim of a scam
If you believe your financial information has been compromised, act quickly. Contact us right away at 505‑889‑7755 or 800‑347‑2838 (outside the Albuquerque area) or visit any of our branch locations.
For additional tools and resources to help protect your identity, explore Nusenda Credit Union’s Security Center.