Looking Out for Our Neighbors: A Quick Guide to Avoid HELOC Check Fraud
We want to keep you in the loop about a new scam making the rounds, targeting home equity lines of credit (HELOCs). A little precaution can go a long way in keeping your money safe. Let’s break it down and show you how to protect yourself!
What’s Going On?
Some fraudsters are using public records to find HELOC information and create fake checks. They’ve figured out that these documents can sometimes contain details like your name, address, lender info, signature, and account number. With this info, they can forge checks and try to swipe your hard-earned cash.
Simple Steps to Stay Safe
Here are a few easy steps you can take to protect yourself and your HELOC:
- Secure Your HELOC Info:
- When handling your HELOC documents, make sure they don’t include sensitive details like your account number. Some documents might include this info by default, so it’s worth double-checking.
2. Keep an Eye on Your Accounts:
- Regularly check your HELOC statements and transactions. It’s easy to overlook these accounts compared to your checking or savings, but a quick review now and then can help you spot any unusual activity.
3. Speak Up if Something’s Not Right:
- If you notice anything strange, don’t hesitate to reach out and report it. The sooner you act, the better!
We’re Here for You
At Points West Community Bank, we’re not just your bank; we’re your neighbors. We’re here to help you stay informed and secure. We’re working closely with the Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) and other local banks to keep an eye on the latest scams and share tips to protect our community.
If you ever have concerns or just want to chat about ways to safeguard your finances, give us a call. And remember, you can connect with others on the ICBA Community’s fraud subgroup to share stories and stay informed.
Stay Safe and Savvy
We’re all in this together, looking out for one another. Keeping an eye on your accounts and being cautious with your information can help keep your finances safe. If you ever need us, we’re just a phone call away. Stay safe, stay savvy, and remember—we’ve got your back!