Protecting Yourself from Fraud

Fraudulent messages
Fraudulent emails, texts or calls may look legitimate but are designed to steal your personal information, passwords or security codes. Pause before you respond. Verify the sender and contact the company directly through official channels if something feels off.

Impersonation scams
Scammers can pose as officials from government agencies, phone and utility companies or even financial institutions to gain your trust and access your funds. If a situation doesn’t seem right, trust your instincts and end the conversation immediately.

Charity and urgent request scams
A scammer may ask you to send gift cards or payment information urgently to help a charitable cause or someone in need. Always take time to confirm the legitimacy of the charity or claim before donating.

Malicious links and attachments
Scammers send malicious links and files via email, text, or social media that appear to be from trusted sources. Never click on a link or open an attachment if you were not expecting it.

• Verify before you act. Contact LCEF or any organization directly using the number on their official website.
• Never share personal information in response to an unsolicited message or call.
• Keep your devices secure with strong passwords and regular software updates.
• Monitor your accounts regularly for unusual activity or unauthorized transactions.

Refunds and case handling for fraud incidents are determined by several factors. In the case of fraud, LCEF follows standard procedures which are consistent with best practices in the financial industry. To maximize your chances at recovery, here are some factors which can affect whether a refund is possible:

• Timely reporting: The sooner you report fraud, the more options we have to help. Waiting to report fraud can diminish your chances of recovering from a fraud incident.
• Account security practices: Refund eligibility may be limited if your card or account information was shared, stored or handled in a way that increased risk. Once you become aware of fraud on your account, change passwords and PINs for all accounts associated with the affected account.
• Stop all payments: Call your bank or financial institution to request a freeze or transaction reversal on your account.
• Clean up software: Consider running trusted anti-virus software on your computer and other essential devices to block future unauthorized remote access.