You Shouldn’t Have to Guess Who? You’re Talking To: Protect Yourself from Scams by Knowing Who’s Really on the Other End
Remember the game Guess Who? You’d flip down faces and ask questions to figure out who you were dealing with. It was fun as a game, but in real life, guessing who you're talking to can cost you.
At First State, we want to help you stay sharp and avoid falling into a scammer’s trap. The first step? Stop guessing, and start verifying.
1. Always Verify Who You're Talking To, Especially If They're Asking for Money
Scammers can sound convincing. They may pose as a bank employee, government official, tech support, or even a family member. If they’re asking for money, personal information, or login details, pause and confirm their identity.
Call back using an official phone number. Don’t rely on caller ID alone, those can be faked. If you're ever unsure, reach out to us directly.
2. Be Smart About Online Purchases
The internet makes shopping easy, but it also makes scams easier. Before you buy anything online, especially from sellers you don’t know:
- Check reviews
- Verify contact information
- Look for secure payment options
If the seller has no history, poor ratings, or vague details, it’s best to move on. Deals that seem too good to be true usually are.
3. Think Before You Pay with Cash
Cash is quick, but it’s also nearly impossible to recover once it’s handed over. If someone insists on being paid in cash, that’s a red flag.
Use traceable payment methods when possible. And if you must use cash, make sure the person or business is legitimate and trustworthy. Once it’s gone, it’s gone.
Stop Guessing, Start Protecting
In the game of Guess Who?, it takes a few questions to figure out who you're dealing with. In real life, it should only take one:
"Do I really know who this is?"
If the answer is “no” or even “I’m not sure,” stop and verify. If you have any concerns, call your local First State branch. Don’t guess when it comes to your money. We’re here to help you protect what matters
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