A recent study tells us that nearly 13 million consumers become victims of fraud and scams each year, totaling more than $16 billion in fraud and identity theft losses annually. By taking the time to ask a few simple questions, we think you can lower your vulnerability and raise your awareness. 

• Is this offer too good to be true? You know the old adage, “If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.”
• Is it normal? Have you heard of something like this happening to anyone else you know?
• Did they request personal or financial information? Be very guarded and offer to call them back through their number listed online to verify the request. 
• Does it feel suspicious? Trust your gut. If it doesn’t feel right, there’s a reason. 
• Did you run it by someone you trust? Talk with your credit union, your spouse, or your most tech-savvy friend to get a second opinion. 

For more information on how to protect yourself from scams and fraud, go to mycreditunion.gov and search for “Frauds and Scams.”