Scammers often pose as support or service representatives, offering to resolve issues related to a compromised email, a virus on your computer, or even a software license renewal. These scams usually start with a phone call or a pop-up warning of a computer problem that gives a number to call. The scammers often claim to...
Category: Fraud Prevention
Smash and grab on the rise
There is a surge of “smash-and-grab” thefts from parking lots at retail stores, event centers, parking ramps, sports fields, wedding venues, and more. Perpetrators smash your window and grab your purse, wallet, or phone. The thief will use the stolen items (checks, ID, credit card, debit card) to access your financial information. This can lead...
Applying for jobs? Be on the lookout for scams.
You might have just graduated from college, but there’s still more to learn when you’re on the job hunt. Not every posting or job recruiter is legit. Learn how to spot the scams. We’ve been getting reports about a scam that starts out with a job recruiter reaching out to ask for your resume. Sounds...
Guard your wallet, as well as your heart
A romance scam is when a new love interest says they love you, but they love your money–and may not be who they say they are. Be on the lookout for these warning signs of a romance scam: A new love who lives far away asks you to wire them money or share your credit...
Avoid gift card scams
Looking for a New Year’s resolution? Here’s one for you: Keep your hard-earned money safe from scammers by spotting and avoiding gift card scams. Then help others spot and avoid them, too. Scammers want you to pay with gift cards because they’re like cash: once you use a gift card, the money on it is...
Protecting Yourself from Identity Theft, Part 2
The incidence of identity theft is on the rise. In fact, according to the Aite Group, 47% of Americans experienced financial identity theft in 2020. However, there are plenty of things you can do to protect yourself and your financial records from would-be hackers. Jason Norton, DuTrac’s Senior Vice President of Marketing, recently talked with...
Protecting Yourself from Identity Theft, Part 1
With the holidays around the corner, it’s more important than ever to be wary of identity theft. Jason Norton, DuTrac’s Senior Vice President of Marketing, recently talked with WQAD about things you can do to protect your financial accounts. Learn more about how to spot a skimmer, the benefits of regularly checking your account, and...
Be Aware of Scammers Asking for Your Money
Scammers have been finding ways to get people to pay with gift cards or by wiring money for many years. Scammers love getting you to pay that way because they can get your money fast and disappear. It is almost as good as getting you to send cold, hard cash. Which must have occurred to...
As Internet Usage Increases So Do Opportunities for Cybercriminals
As access to financial services becomes more technology driven, with improved security features, scammers and fraudsters are evolving just as quickly in order to take advantage of the unwary or uninformed consumer. With an estimated impact of $6 trillion by 2021 (Gemalto.com), cybercrime may not only be financially devastating – it could also devastate a...
Tips to Avoid Being Scammed
(Thursday, May 10, 2018) Provided by the Dubuque Police Department. • Question everything. The old saying “if it seems too good to be true, it probably is” remains accurate. • Research. Never make a hasty decision when it comes to providing personal information, account information and/or sending/giving money. Take a few minutes to verify the...







