Scare tactics scammers use to get your money.

They want to push you into panic mode, so you don’t have time to think. Using AI and spoofed numbers make it easy for them to trick you into giving them your money.

The STCU financial crimes team specializes in preventing fraud and working with people who’ve been scammed. Here are some of the most common scare tactics they see and how to avoid falling for them.

Fake legal trouble.

Scammers love to impersonate law enforcement. They might call and claim there’s a warrant for your arrest because you missed jury duty. They’ll say the only way to avoid jail time is to pay a fine ASAP.

That’s nerve-racking, right? That’s their goal.

Here’s what to keep in mind: Law enforcement agencies don’t work like that. If you really had a legal issue you’d get an official written notice, not a high-pressure phone call demanding payment.   

Threats against your family.

This one feels straight out of a movie. Scammers use AI-generated voices to make it sound like a loved one has been kidnapped or is in trouble.

 You might get a call from someone claiming to be your relative begging for help while a supposed kidnapper demands ransom.

Another version? A scammer might claim your family member is hurt or in jail and needs money right now. In reality, they’re safe and sound.

Before you do anything, hang up and reach out to them directly.

Blackmail or embarrassment. 

Scammers will try to convince you that they have something on you. They’ll say they have proof you visited an illegal website or did something shameful.

They threaten to expose you unless you pay them.

Here’s the thing, they don’t have anything on you. These scams use fear and secrecy, hoping you'll panic and pay before realizing it was made up.

Bogus claims your money isn't safe. 

One of the most effective tricks is making people believe their money could be in trouble.

Scammers will pose as bank employees or fraud investigators, and claim your account is at risk. They might tell you to withdraw cash and give it to them for safekeeping or move your money to a “safe” account (which they control).

Your financial institution will never ask you to do this with your money.

What do all these scams have in common?

1. Isolation: Scammers tell you not to talk to anyone, keeping you from getting a second opinion that might save you. They might even stay on the phone while you withdraw money so you don’t ask anyone for help.
2. Urgency: They create a sense of immediate danger so you don’t have time to think.
3. Deception: They coach you on what to say if someone asks questions.

When in doubt, pause. Reach out to someone you trust, ask questions, and verify the communications before making a move. Scammers thrive on fear and urgency, but staying informed is one of the best ways to stop them in their tracks.