Avoiding Scams in the Current Social Climate

Security Notice - March 20, 2020

Fraudsters are always looking to take advantage of current trends or social fears and the current global climate is no different. Please be mindful of scams related to information recently released in the news or trending on social media.

• As social interaction becomes limited, electronic communication may become more and more common. Be extra cautious not to click on emails, links, or attachments from sources you don’t know.

• Be wary of emails claiming to be from the CDC or other experts saying they have new information about the virus. These organizations do not usually communicate in this way and these are more likely to include malware or details outlining a scam.

• Be cautious of anyone claiming to have advance access to vaccines or treatments for the COVID-19 virus. This is not reliable information and any claims of this nature are a scam.

• If you wish to donate to others during this time, research charities and crowdfunding sites before sending donations. If someone is requesting donations using cash, gift cards, or by wiring money, this is most likely a scam, but be cautious of other methods as well, to ensure your donations are actually going to where you want them to go.

• Keep an eye out for price gouging of essential items. The drastic increase in prices much higher than reasonable or fair on necessary items like toilet paper, water, hand sanitizer, or household cleaners is illegal and should be reported to the appropriate agency. Within the state of Utah, price gouging can be reported to the Utah Division of Consumer Protection at 800-721-7233 or consumerprotection@utah.gov.

How to Report Suspicious Activity

If you have received a suspicious e-mail or other fraudulent correspondence regarding Goldenwest Credit Union, please forward it to phishing@gwcu.org.