How to Protect Yourself from Late-Summer Scams

Fraudsters love this time of year — families are busy with back-to-school shopping, college students are moving, and hurricane season can create opportunities for fake charities and shady contractors. At Old Ocean Federal Credit Union, your security comes first. Here are four common scams to watch out for this August:

1. Back-to-School Shopping Scams

Be wary of too-good-to-be-true online deals on popular school supplies, electronics, or clothes. Stick with trusted retailers, and watch out for fake websites designed to steal your payment info.

2. College Housing Rental Scams

College students hunting for off-campus housing can be targets for fake rental listings. Never wire money or pay a deposit before you’ve signed a legitimate lease and confirmed the landlord’s identity.

3. Hurricane-Related Charity Scams

During hurricane season, scammers may pose as relief organizations to collect donations. Always verify charities through trusted sites like Charity Navigator, and never donate over the phone to unsolicited callers.

4. Phishing & “Urgent” Messages

Scammers send emails or texts pretending to be your bank, school, or a shipping company. Don’t click on links you weren’t expecting — and remember, Old Ocean will never ask for your passwords or PIN by email or text.

Stay Protected with Old Ocean

We work around the clock to help keep your accounts safe. If you spot suspicious activity or think you may have shared information with a scammer, contact us immediately. Together, we can help protect your money and your peace of mind.