Financial scams targeting seniors are on the rise, and fraudsters are becoming more sophisticated in their tactics. Chelsea EFCU strongly encourages our members to review the information below and share it with family and friends over the age of 60 to help safeguard against these threats.

How Are Scammers Targeting Seniors?

Fraudsters use various deceptive methods to trick seniors into providing money or personal information. Here are some of the most common scams:

• Tech Support & Customer Service Impersonation
  Scammers pose as representatives from well-known tech companies, claiming to fix fake computer issues or renew fraudulent security subscriptions. Increasingly, they are also impersonating financial institutions, utility companies, and even virtual currency exchanges.
• Grandparent & Loved One Scams
  Seniors receive urgent calls from fraudsters pretending to be a grandchild or relative in distress. They may claim to be in legal trouble, stuck at a border, or in need of immediate financial assistance—often requesting money via wire transfer or gift cards.
• Credit Union & Banking Scams
  Fraudsters impersonate credit union employees, calling or emailing members to “verify” sensitive account details such as PINs, card numbers, expiration dates, and passwords.

How to Stay Safe

Protect yourself and your loved ones by following these essential safety tips:

• Never give remote access to your computer to anyone who contacts you unexpectedly. If you receive a call about a supposed issue, hang up. If you’re concerned about your device’s security, seek help from a reputable tech professional.
• Verify phone numbers before calling back. Scammers often provide fake customer service numbers via email, text, voicemail, or pop-up ads. Always use the official number listed on the company’s website.
• Be cautious when asked to send money. If someone pressures you to wire funds due to an urgent situation, consult with a trusted friend, family member, or Chelsea EFCU before taking action. Be honest about the request—many scammers instruct victims to lie about why they are sending money.

Stay Informed & Protect Your Finances

To stay updated on the latest scams and learn how to avoid them, visit Consumer FTC—a trusted resource for identifying and preventing fraud.

At Chelsea Employees FCU, we are committed to helping our members protect their financial well-being. If you suspect fraudulent activity or have concerns about your account, please contact us immediately.