It’s good to occasionally review best practices for internet security. If you ever receive a text or email claiming to be from Plymouth staff or clergy requesting assistance, do not open it or respond to it. No one from the Plymouth staff will ever send requests for financial or other assistance.

Fraudsters use clever schemes to defraud millions of people every year. They often combine sophisticated technology with age-old tricks to get people to send money or give out personal information. They add new twists to old schemes and pressure people to make important decisions on the spot. Losing money or property to scams and fraud can be devastating. If you receive a text, call or email that seems suspicious, don’t respond to it. Here are some steps to help you get ahead of scammers.

Recognize and Report Fraud:

• Slow Down 
  Scammers rely on urgency to create panic. Be cautious of anything that implies you must act immediately. Take the time to review the message, then review it again.
• Don’t Click
  Never click a link from unknown senders. Doing so can unleash viruses and worse.
• Check the Details 
  Are there spelling or grammar errors? Generic greetings, like “Sir or Madame?” Fraudsters will frequently use small typos to trick you into clicking on the link.
• Report It 
  Report it to the Federal Trade Commission.
• Delete and Block It 
  So you don’t accidentally interact with it later.

Common Fraud Scenarios :

• Payment is Needed or Overdue
  Never wire money, send money orders, gift cards or cash. 
• Funds Required for Package Delivery
  Only a few packages require money for delivery, such as collecting duties or taxes. Tracking your package is the safest way to see if any fees are due.
• Account or Payment Info Requested
  Unexpected alerts about your accounts could be fraud. Confirm there are no suspicious activities by logging in to your accounts.
• If It Seems Too Good To Be True...
  Scammers may advertise goods or services at impossibly deep discounts.

Click here for an up-to-date education resource to help protect you from ever-evolving scams.