In today’s digital age, kids are more connected than ever, making them prime targets for text scams. Scammers use deceptive messages to trick people into giving away personal information, clicking malicious links, or even sending money.
As a parent, it’s important to equip your children with the knowledge they need to stay safe. According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the following are just some ways scammers might target your kids:
- Scammers might pretend to be someone from school or a well-known business.
- Scammers say there’s a problem or a prize to get you to respond. Not sure that problem or prize is real? Get help from a parent or trusted adult.
- Scammers use pressure so you don’t have time to think. Slow down.
- Scammers tell you to pay with cash, a gift card, wire transfer, cryptocurrency, or payment app. Paying in these ways makes it difficult to get your money back.
What should you do if you think you spot a scam?
- Never share your personal information. Block the number immediately if you suspect a scam.
- Never click on links or respond to unexpected texts.
- Filter unwanted spam texts.
- Visit donotcall.gov to register your phone and report any unwanted phone calls.
- Go to reportfraud.ftc.gov to file a fraud complaint.
- If you think your child may have provided any personal identifying financial information regarding any CEFCU accounts, call CEFCU at 1.800.542.3328 to report. To learn more about scams and tips to keep information safe, visit cefcu.com/security.
