CHASE MONEY SKILLS®
Fraud and Scams
Be aware, stay protected.
Key things to help protect your money
Know what to look for in your finances that may signal there’s something wrong.
Unrecognizable transactions
Transactions or charges you don’t recognize are a sign of trouble.
Unusual bank activity
Changes to your password, address or banking preferences made without your request may indicate suspicious activity.
Unrequested new accounts
New accounts should never be a surprise. They may indicate fraud and should be reported.
Requests for access
If a stranger is asking to take control of your computer, they may be trying to get your personal info.
WHAT TO KNOW
How to spot suspicious activity
Understand the difference between fraud and scams:
Fraud
A criminal act when someone gets access to your money or account, often by lying, stealing or pretending to be you, without your permission or knowledge.
Scam
A dishonest trick used to cheat someone out of something, usually money, often by taking advantage of their trust or what they don’t know. Financial scams occur when the victim agrees to transfer funds and can happen in person, online or through phone calls, emails, texts or even regular mail.
Get familiar with these common types of suspicious activities
Scams
Investment opportunities, lottery winnings, overdue IRS bills — scammers tell elaborate stories to deceive you and benefit themselves. Scams can occur over the phone, online or in person, and victims may be asked for personal information, funds or other payments.
Identity theft
Identity theft is when a criminal uses your personal information to open credit cards, apply for loans, rent apartments and more, all under your identity. The results of identity theft can damage your credit, leave you with unwanted bills, and require time and effort to undo.
Phishing
Phishing schemes trick you into giving away your sensitive information by impersonating sources you trust, like a bank or employer. Typically, phishing involves an email, text or phone call encouraging you to complete an action, like updating your account or changing your password.
MAKE A PLAN
Strengthen your defenses
Scammers target every age group
Know how they focus on people at your stage of life.
Young adult
Adult
Senior
Scammers are targeting students
Check out this quick video to learn how Chase’s digital tools can help protect you from scams and fraud.
Learn how scams happen — and how to help protect yourself
Scammers often create urgency, pressure or emotional situations to get people to act quickly. Check out this short video to learn common scam tactics and steps that can help you recognize red flags before you respond.
Plan today so people you trust can help tomorrow
Life changes over time and having a clear plan can make financial decisions easier for you and the people who may one day support you. This step-by-step worksheet helps you build a financial care team, organize key documents and start important conversations so your wishes are understood and respected.
MAKE IT HAPPEN
Steps to be better protected
Easy ways to help keep your information secure
- Be vigilant with your documents, devices and property.
- Never provide your personal information to someone who calls, texts or emails you.
- At minimum, have unique passwords for your financial accounts and don’t use them across multiple sites.
- Regularly check your credit reports to monitor for changes you didn’t anticipate.
- Access your free credit score and identity monitoring with Chase Credit Journey®. Get alerts for changes to your credit report or if your info is found on the dark web at chase.com/CreditJourney.
- Switch to a passkey, instead of a password, for a more secure way to sign in to chase.com.
- Consider reaching out to the three credit bureaus for tools to protect your credit report or credit score.
- Never click any links or attachments in suspicious emails — if you’re unsure whether it’s legitimate, go to the organization’s website directly.
- Only carry what you need (and avoid carrying your Social Security card), in case of loss or theft.
Identity theft protection made easy
Get the help you need to protect your personal information, including:
- Learn if your Social Security number is found on the dark web or exposed in a data breach
- Know when lenders are checking your identity
- Receive identity restoration assistance
- Get help if you lose your wallet
Know the signs of identity theft
Identity theft can happen when someone uses your personal information to commit fraud, such as opening accounts, applying for loans or stealing money from your accounts. Download this guide to learn what to watch for, how identity theft can happen and steps that can help you protect your information.
Get your free guide to help safeguard your finances and your family
This easy-to-follow guide helps you plan ahead and can bring peace of mind if something unexpected happens. It can help you:
- Break down estate planning considerations
- Identify items to consider to be prepared for life’s uncertainties
- Provide loved ones guidance for your future wishes
What to do if you suspect fraud
Think you may be a victim of fraud?
If you believe you’ve identified evidence of fraud, act fast. Contact your creditors, bank and financial partners. If you’re a Chase customer, get in touch with us immediately at 1-800-935-9935 or visit your local branch.
Has your identity been stolen?
If you believe you’re a victim of identity theft, immediately contact law enforcement, notify your bank and place a fraud alert on your credit file. Use our identity theft protection kit (PDF) and, if you’re a Chase customer, contact our Customer Protection Group at 1-888-745-0091 or visit your local branch.
Have you spotted a phishing scheme?
If you’ve received a suspicious email, forward it to the Anti-Phishing Working Group at reportphishing@apwg.org. Forward any suspicious text messages to SPAM (7726). Then, report your experience to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.govOpens overlay. Learn more about phishing here.
