Redwood Credit Union

5 Ways to Stay Safe From Scams As if you don't have enough to worry about already, the COVID-19 pandemic is also leading to an increase in fraud. Widespread fear and confusion, along with an eagerness and urgency to help others in need, create the perfect environment for dishonest individuals to prey on people of all ages. Please keep these guidelines in mind to protect your finances: If Bills Become an Impossible Burden… If you are able to keep making your usual payments on loans and other bills, we want you to know that the best thing to do is to keep making payments as you normally would. However, considering the current situation, it's understandable that you may need to evaluate your current debts and see where you could lower payments. If you've been paying more than the minimum amount on bills like your mortgage, auto loan, credit card bills, etc., cut back and pay the minimums until you get back on your feet. If the minimum amounts still don't work with your current financial situation, contact your creditors and lenders individually. Being proactive and honest will put you in a much better position to try to negotiate payment plans that will work for you. Contact our partners at BALANCE for help with financial counseling and one-on-one support. Remember: Financial hardships are nothing to be ashamed of, and many others are in the same situation. Financial institutions and government agencies will never call, text, or email you to ask for credentials or other personal information. Don't respond. If you have concerns, look up the organization's number yourself and call to see if they contacted you. Do your own research to verify the legitimacy of any individual or organization claiming to raise money for charitable causes. Social media fundraisers are often fraudulent. Fraudsters are posing as financial institutions offering speedy funding on low- or no-interest loans. Never give out your personal information, and contact your financial institution if you need support. If you're seeking employment, walk away from job offers that require you to purchase gift cards, merchandise, or pay out of pocket for supplies or services to be reimbursed later. Don't click suspicious links or open email attachments from unknown senders. If you receive an unsolicited offer that seems too good to be true, it most likely is. Just opening an email or clicking a link can compromise your personal data.

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