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Beware of Scams. Members have reported scammers using spoofed text messages and phone calls that appear to be from O Bee Credit Union employees trying to get members to share sensitive information to gain access to their accounts. Remember, O Bee Credit Union will never initiate contact and request sensitive information over the phone, via email, or by text.If someone asks you for this information, end the call and reach out to us directly at 360-943-0740. Click to learn more. Beware of Scams. Members have reported scammers using spoofed text messages and phone calls that appear to be from O Bee Credit Union employees trying to get members to share sensitive information to gain access to their accounts. Remember, O Bee Credit Union will never initiate contact and request sensitive information over the phone, via email, or by text.If someone asks you for this information, end the call and reach out to us directly at 360-943-0740. Click to learn more. X
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Fraud Fighters

Investment & Romance Scams

Investment and romance scams are the costliest types of elder abuse fraud. These deceptive schemes often start on social media, where scammers build trust to access victims' savings. We’ll break down how these scams typically unfold, highlight common warning signs, and share practical steps to help safeguard yourself or loved ones who might be vulnerable.

What to Look For

Investment Scams: These occur when a victim is approached, either in person or online, with a "once-in-a-lifetime" investment opportunity. Scammers lure victims into investing in stocks, cryptocurrency, or real estate, promising huge returns with little or no risk. They may even provide fake statements to show the investment is growing or send small payouts to entice further investments.

Romance Scams: Typically start online through dating websites, social media, or even online games. Scammers often initiate contact, pretending to be someone they’re not, building trust to ask for money later. They’ll create excuses for not meeting in person and eventually claim they need money for an "emergency" or banking problems.
How to Protect Yourself
  • Trust your instincts: If something seems too good to be true, it probably is. Research any company or individual offering investment opportunities, and never feel pressured into quick financial decisions.
  • Be wary of love-bombing: If someone is overly eager to profess their love or insists on secrecy, be cautious. Always talk to trusted friends or family about your situation to get a second opinion.
  • Limit your exposure: Consider making your social media accounts private to restrict who can view your personal information.
How to Respond
If you suspect you’re dealing with a scammer, cut off all contact and block their phone numbers or social media accounts. Many older adults may feel embarrassed about falling for a scam and hesitate to seek help. If you think you've been scammed, don’t be ashamed—contact your credit union right away to discuss ways to safeguard your account and potentially recover lost funds. Reporting the scam to local law enforcement or even the FBI at http://www.ic3.gov can also help with further investigation and possibly prevent others from becoming victims.

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