Scammers are constantly finding new ways to target consumers, and technology is making it easier than ever for fraudsters to make scams look legitimate. From convincing text messages to fake phone calls and online shopping scams, knowing what to watch for can help protect your money and personal information.

Here are 10 common scams you should be aware of in 2026.

1. Phishing Emails and Text Messages

Phishing scams use emails or text messages designed to look like they came from a legitimate company, financial institution, or service. They may ask you to click a link, verify your information, or make a payment. When in doubt, don't click the link. Contact the company directly using a trusted phone number or website.

2. Fake Bank or Credit Union Calls

A scammer may call pretending to be from your bank or credit union and claim there is suspicious activity on your account. They may ask for your account information, password, PIN, or a verification code. Remember: legitimate financial institutions will not ask you to provide sensitive information through an unexpected call.

3. Romance Scams

Romance scammers create fake online relationships to gain someone's trust before asking for money. They often claim to have an emergency or financial problem. If someone you've only met online asks you to send money, purchase gift cards, or provide financial information, consider it a major red flag.

4. Tech Support Scams

You may receive a pop-up, email, or phone call claiming your computer or phone has a serious security problem. The scammer then asks for remote access or payment to "fix" it. Don't give strangers remote access to your devices.

5. Online Shopping Scams

Fake websites and social media advertisements can offer popular products at unbelievable prices. You may receive a counterfeit product, or nothing at all. Research unfamiliar sellers and be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true.

6. Government Impersonation Scams

Scammers may pretend to be from the IRS, Social Security Administration, law enforcement, or another government agency. They may threaten arrest, fines, or loss of benefits unless you pay immediately. Be especially cautious when you're pressured to act right away.

7. Employment Scams

Fake job opportunities can be used to steal personal information or money. Be wary of employers who ask you to pay upfront fees, deposit a check and send money back, or provide sensitive financial information before you've verified the company.

8. Lottery and Prize Scams

"Congratulations! You've won!" sounds exciting, but if you didn't enter a contest, you can't win it. Scammers may ask you to pay taxes, fees, or shipping costs before receiving your supposed prize. Don't send money to claim an unexpected prize.

9. Check and Overpayment Scams

A scammer may send you a check for more than you're owed and ask you to send the difference back. Although the check may initially appear legitimate, it can later be returned as fraudulent, leaving you responsible for the money.

10. AI-Powered Impersonation Scams

Artificial intelligence is making it easier for scammers to create convincing emails, messages, voices, and even videos. A scammer may impersonate a family member, friend, or business executive and make an urgent request for money. If something feels unusual, verify the request through another trusted method.

Stay Alert and Protect Yourself

Scammers rely on urgency, fear, and trust to convince people to act before they have time to think. If someone unexpectedly asks for money, account information, passwords, or verification codes, stop and verify the request.

At CES Credit Union, we're committed to helping our members stay informed and protect their finances. If you believe you've encountered a scam or notice suspicious activity involving your account, contact CES Credit Union as soon as possible.

Remember: When in doubt, stop, verify, and protect your information.