Financial Fraud & Security Center
Educate | Act | Avoid
Scams and fraud are everywhere — and the first line of defense is you. Sandia Area is here to help you stay protected, recover if needed, and never face it alone.
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How to Report Card Fraud
If you suspect that you are a victim of debit or credit card fraud, take the following measures to protect yourself and your identity.
Call Sandia Area
Credit Card Fraud
Debit Card Fraud
Know What to Look For
Types of Fraud & Scams
Phishing & Smishing Scams
These scams use fake emails, texts (Smishing), or websites to trick you into giving up personal information like passwords or banking details.
Wire Fraud
Fraudsters pose as trusted contacts or businesses to convince you to wire money, but once it's sent, it's almost impossible to get back.
Credit & Debit Card Fraud
This happens when someone steals your card details to make unauthorized purchases or withdrawals, often without you realizing it right away.
Romance Scams
A romance scam happens when someone pretends to be interested in a relationship online, gains your trust, and then asks for money or personal details.
Imposter Scams
An imposter scam happens when someone pretends to be a trusted person—like a government official, tech support, or even a family member—to trick you into sending money or sharing personal information.
Check Fraud
Scammers use fake, altered, or stolen checks to trick you into sending money before the bank realizes the check is bad.
Protecting YOur Devices
Scam of the Month
Your phone, computer and tablet contain a lot of valuable information, making them an attractive target for scammers. Device security isn't just about protecting your device from viruses—it's about protecting your personal information, accounts and finances.
How Scammers Target Your Devices
Scammers may use:
- Fake security alerts that claim your device is infected and urge you to call, click or download something.
- Malicious links and attachments that can lead to fake websites or harmful software.
- Fake tech support that asks you to download software, share a security code or give remote access to your device.
- Stolen passwords that allow scammers to access your accounts, especially when passwords are reused.
Protect Your Devices
A few simple habits can help keep your information safer:
- Keep your devices and apps updated.
- Use
strong, unique passwords and turn on multifactor authentification (MFA). - Never give remote access to someoone who contacts you unexpectedly.
- When something feels suspicious, stop and verify before you act.
If you think your device or an account has been compromised, change your passwords, enable MFA and monitor your accounts for suspicious activity.
Remember: Scammers want you to react quickly. Take a moment to stop, verify and think before you click.
Monthly Fraud Friday Segment
Fraud Friday August 2026:
Sandia Area offers tips on how to protect your personal data from mobile cybercriminals
Protect Yourself from Fraud
Resources & Support
Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Adding MFA to your online banking enhances security by requiring a second verification step, such as a code sent to your phone. This helps prevent unauthorized access, even if your password is stolen.
Add a Codeword to Your Accounts
Adding a codeword to your online banking safeguards your finances from scammers, even if they call pretending to be you. Keep your codeword safe—avoid writing it down and store it securely.
Secure Your Accounts
Use strong, unique passwords for your personal accounts such as online banking or WiFi. Store passwords securely and never share them with family or friends.
DON'T Trust Caller ID
Scammers are known to spoof numbers of legitimate businesses. If something feels off, hang up and call the company back directly—no matter what your caller ID says.
DON'T Be Pressured
Many scam tactics rely on triggering your sense of urgency to act fast. Don't be tempted. Take a moment to think, verify claims, and research the issue before revealing any information.
DON'T Click
Links in emails and texts are a prime way scammers try to get your information. Those links could even contain malware. When in doubt, type the URL directly into your browser instead.
How to Use Debit Card Lock
Easily manage your card with Debit Card Lock. Temporarily block it if it's lost or there's suspicious activity, and unlock it anytime.
How to Use Travel Notices
Making travel plans? Watch the video to learn how to submit a notice to avoid disruptions.
Read More
Fraud & Security Educational Resources
Arm Yourself Against Fraud
Learn how to recognize common scams, protect your personal information, and use the tools Sandia Area offers to keep your accounts safe.
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A Guide to Spotting Fraud and Protecting Yourself
Discover the red flags of fraud, how to verify suspicious contacts, and the steps you can take — along with tools Sandia Area provides — to keep your personal and financial information secure.
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Keep Your Online Credentials Safe
Your online banking username, password, and security settings are the keys to your finances — here's how to protect them and stay one step ahead of the scammers trying to get in.
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