New Year. New Fraud.

New Year, New Fraud: Protecting Yourself from Emerging Scams in 2026

As we enter a new year, fraudsters are evolving just as fast as technology. From sophisticated phishing attacks to AI-powered scams, criminals are finding new ways to target credit union members. In this blog, we’ll explore the latest fraud trends, common scams to watch for, and practical steps Aeroquip Credit Union members can take to protect their finances and personal information in the year ahead.

Why Fraud Spikes at the Beginning of a New Year

The new year provides a perfect opportunity for fraud due to many factors:

• New year = new resolutions, new devices, and new accounts
• Tax season is approaching
• Increased online activity
• Financial planning

Top Fraud Trends to Watch for this Year

Familiarize yourself with fraud trends to reduce the likelihood of getting scammed.

Phishing Scams

• Fake emails or texts pretending to be Aeroquip Credit Union
• Notifications mentioning: “Account locked”, “suspicious activity”, or “verify your information”

AI & Impersonation Scams

AI has become more prominent in everyday life and scammers are using it to their advantage.

• Voice cloning pretending to be a family member or employer
• Fake customer service calls
• Fake emails or messages

Zelle / Payment Fraud

Scammers use urgent language to steal your funds through direct contact.

• Requests to send money quickly
• Fake buyers or sellers
• “Accidental payment” scams

Tax Scams

With tax time approaching, it is important to recognize the emerging tax scams.

• Fake IRS messages
• Promises for refunds
• Requests for personal information

Warning Signs to Watch out for

Watch these signs to ensure your safety when it comes to scams.

• Pressure to act immediately
• Requests for one-time passcodes
• Asking for login information
• Requests for payment via gift cards, cashapp, venmo, or cryptocurrency

How Aeroquip Credit Union Protects our members

• Secure online and mobile banking
• Member education and alerts
• Easy reporting process

What Can You Do to Stay Safe?

• Use strong, unique passwords
• Never click unknown links
• Verify before sending money
• Contact Aeroquip Credit Union directly if something feels off

What to do if you Suspect Fraud?

• Contact Aeroquip Credit Union immediately
• Freeze accounts if needed
• Change passwords
• Monitor statements and credit reports

Aeroquip Credit Union is Your Partner in Fraud Prevention

We're committed to helping you protect yourself from fraud. If you suspect you've been targeted by a scam, contact us immediately at 517-789-2890 or at 517-789-2886 or visit your local branch. You should also report the scam to the FTC and your local law enforcement agency.

Stay vigilant, stay informed, and stay safe!

Other Resources for Fraud Education

These resources provide more information regarding new fraud trends and what to do if you are scammed.

What to do is you were scammed_EN.pdf

January scams spike as criminals target tax data and personal information | Fox News

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