Don't Let Fraud Give You a Fright This Halloween

Don't Let Fraud Give You a Fright This Halloween

As Halloween approaches, it's not just ghosts and ghouls you need to watch out for. Fraudsters are constantly finding new ways to trick people into handing over money or personal information.

Here are some scary fraud facts and practical tips to help protect yourself and your finances.

Scary Fact #1: Fraudsters Want Your Personal Information More Than Your Money

Criminals can use small pieces of information such as your date of birth, address, account details or passwords to impersonate you and gain access to accounts.

• Stay Safe
• Never share passwords or security codes with anyone.
• We will never ask for your full password, PIN or one-time passcode.
• Be cautious about what personal information you share online.

Scary Fact #2: Scammers Can Disguise Themselves as Trusted Organisations

Fraudsters can make emails, text messages and phone calls appear to come from banks, credit unions, delivery companies or government agencies.

Stay Safe

• Don't trust a message simply because it looks genuine.
• If you're unsure, contact the organisation directly using a trusted phone number or website.
• Never click links in unexpected messages.

Scary Fact #3: Urgency Is One of a Fraudster's Favourite Tricks

Messages such as:

"Your account will be closed today."
"Your payment has failed."
"Act now to avoid losing access."

Scammers create a sense of panic to stop people thinking clearly.

Stay Safe

• Take a moment before responding.
• Genuine organisations won't pressure you into making immediate payments.
• If something feels rushed or alarming, pause and verify.

Scary Fact #4: Investment Scams Can Look Like Easy Money

If an investment promises guaranteed returns or sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Fraudsters often use social media, online advertisements and fake websites to attract victims.

Stay Safe

• Research thoroughly before investing.
• Be wary of promises of quick profits.
• Never invest based solely on advice received through social media or messaging apps.

Scary Fact #5: Smishing Is on the Rise

Smishing is a scam text message designed to steal your personal information or encourage you to click malicious links.

These messages often appear to come from trusted organisations and create a sense of urgency.

Stay Safe

• Don't click suspicious links.
• Delete unexpected text messages.
• Contact the company directly if you're unsure whether a message is genuine.

Scary Fact #6: Anyone Can Become a Victim

Fraudsters target people of all ages and backgrounds. No one is immune.

The best defence is staying aware of common scam tactics and taking a moment to think before acting.

Stay Safe

• Keep devices updated.
• Use strong, unique passwords.
• Enable two-factor authentication where available.
• Monitor your accounts regularly.

Beware of These Warning Signs

Be cautious if someone:

1. Asks for passwords, PINs or security codes.
2. Pressures you to act immediately.
3. Requests payment by bank transfer, gift cards or cryptocurrency.
4. Claims you've won a prize you didn't enter.
5. Promises returns that seem too good to be true.
6. Contacts you unexpectedly asking for personal information.

Protect Yourself This Halloween

The best way to avoid becoming a victim of fraud is to remember three simple steps:

STOP. THINK. CHECK.

Before sharing information, transferring money or clicking a link, take a moment to pause and make sure the request is genuine.

If you're ever unsure, contact Comhar Linn directly before taking any action.

Comhar Linn INTO Credit Union
Phone: 01 873 1101
Website: comharlinnintocu.ie

Helping members stay financially safe all year round.