SAFE AWARE

Educate. Act. Defend. That's SAFE's 360° approach to helping you stay ahead of financial fraud. Count on SAFE Aware to bring you the latest fraud prevention tools and tips to keep your personal information secure.

SAFE Aware: Educate. Act. Defend.

Your trusted source for fraud prevention.

SAFE believes awareness is critical for combatting fraud. That's why we developed our comprehensive fraud prevention program called, SAFE Aware. Here, you'll find the latest fraud news, tools, and resources to arm yourself with the strongest defense there is—knowledge. So, strap on your armor and let's dive in together.

Featured Fraud Topics

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Social Media Scams

Social media is great way to connect, but it's also a gateway for fraudsters to exploit your personal information. These scams can be hard to detect, but there are common signs to look out for.
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Identity Theft

Your "financial fingerprint" touches more than you might think, and fraudsters are always on the hunt. Learn more about identity theft and how you can keep your sensitive information out of the wrong hands.
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Payment Scams

Consumers love the speed and convenience of digital payment services and so do fraudsters! See how thieves are using these platforms to drain accounts and how you can fight back.
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Artificial Intelligence Scams

Hold on tight because the Artificial Intelligence era is here! See how crooks are using advances in AI to commit their crimes and how you can keep your money safe.
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On the Radar: Exposing the Latest Scams

Unfortunately, Tax season is Fraud season. Use this step-by-step guide from The South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs to protect your identity (and your tax refund) from scammers. 

Dark photo of laptop, tax documents, calculator, and reading glasses. Guide to Protect Yourself from Income Tax Fraud

Your phone is essentially a "mini computer," and often the weakest link in the chain of cyber security. Use these tips from the South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs to keep hackers out! 

A hand holding a smartphone. Smartphone Safety: Don't let thieves get your data

SAFE Aware Videos

Packed with valuable tips and real-life scenarios, the SAFE Aware videos are a great way to educate yourself about fraud. Each one covers a different fraud topic in about 3 minutes or less, which means you'll be a fraud expert in no time!

If you like what you see, there's plenty more to discover! Visit our SAFE Aware playlist on our Youtube channel to see more videos about everything from elder fraud to imposter scams.

SAFE AwareWATCH MORE!

SAFE Aware: What is Identity Theft? - There's only one of you in the whole entire world, right? Well, that can change in an instant through identity theft. Watch this video to learn the latest tricks thieves are using to steal personal info and how you can help put a stop to it!

SAFE Aware: Hacked Computer - Your computer has been taken over by hackers. Don't panic. Watch this video!

SAFE Aware: Public Wifi - Enjoying free wifi at the coffee shop? Watch this video before you connect!

SAFE Aware: Fake Emergency - Your phone rings in the middle of the night with an emergency. Is it real? 

SAFE Aware: Mobile Device Safety - Learn tips and tricks to protect your mobile device from security threats and ensure your data stays safe on the the go!

True Crime: Real Fraud Stories

All Resources
  • Woman looking at a phone with her hand over her mouth.
    Blog Post
    2 min read

    True Crime: Bank Imposter Scam

    In today's digital age, scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated, commonly targeting victims via text message. This article recounts the real-life story of a woman who fell victim to a scammer...
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  • senior lady at computer
    Blog Post
    2 min read

    True Crime: Georgina's Romance Scam

    A common tactic for fraudsters is to use emotional connections to trick their unsuspecting victims. This article recounts the real-life story of a woman who thought she was in an online romantic...
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  • man looking at phone with a hand on his head
    Blog Post
    2 min read

    True Crime: Adam's Investment Scam

    Investment scams often entice their victims with elaborate promises to get rich quick. Individuals who are desperate for financial security are easily targeted and tricked by these schemes. Most are...
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Ditch the Pitch: A Guide for Guarding Against Scams

The South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs is committed to educating consumers like you about the evolving ways scammers are perpetrating financial crimes. Check out their guide to guarding against scams. It's free to download and full of tips to stay ahead of fraudsters!

SEE IT NOW!

Fraud Vicitims: Take Action!

If you think you've been a victim of fraud, it's important to take action as quickly as possible. Here are some immediate steps to take that can help you protect your sensitive information.

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Report fraudulent activity

If you suspect that you may have been the victim of identity theft, or if you notice any kind of fraudulent or unusual activity on your account or bank statement, reach out to SAFE immediately by:

Contact Us

Additional fraud resources

If you are a consumer with account or loan concerns related to fraudulent insider activities, please contact the NCUA's Consumer Assistance Center.

You may also submit anonymous tips about fraudulent, or potentially fraudulent situations by: