One of the most common tactics when it comes to scams is targeting vulnerable groups like older individuals who might not know what to look for when it comes to people trying to steal their information or money. But another way these sneaky individuals scam innocent people is by posing as trusted members of their community—specifically, their church. The Federal Trade Commission recently shared a report explaining that there’s been a rise in a new type of scam, where scammers pretend to be rabbis, priests, pastors, imams or bishops and ask for personal and financial information. Here, read for the signs to look out for and how to dodge these criminals. 

Life

4 Common Gift Card Scams: Learn How to Spot Them & Avoid Being a Victim

If you received a gift card during the holidays and can’t wait to use it, be aware—scammers are still on the prowl. Many scams exist to target consumers looking to buy gift cards, use new cards or even check the balance on cards they already have. But unlike a credit card, once the money is […]

Pay attention to the email address and body of the message

Scammers don’t have to be too tech-savvy to get information like the name of the leaders at your place of worship. If a scammer knows what church you might attend, for example, a simple Google search can take him or her right to their website. From there, the scammer can get access to names through the church’s social media accounts or from the digital version of the weekly bulletin. That little bit of information can go a long way, and it isn’t difficult for a scammer to create an email account using that name or use it in a message. However, there are certain signs to look out for if you receive an email or text from someone claiming to be a trusted member of your religious group. 

Is the email address being used not one that you typically receive church-related correspondence from? Is the name of the religious leader misspelled? Furthermore, does the email begin with “Hi” or “Hello,” but doesn’t proceed to directly address you by name? These are signs that this is perhaps not the person they are claiming to be. 

Red flags: Gift card and email scams

Oftentimes, a scammer will ask you to purchase an Amazon, Google Play or iTunes gift card, then ask you for the numbers and PIN on the back. With that information, they have immediate access to the money. The chance of this happening—and seeming legitimate—is high if you believe you’re speaking with someone you trust. If a pastor, for example, were to message you around the holidays asking you to buy an Amazon gift card for a gift drive at your church, you might not think anything of it. After all, what’s wrong with making a donation to someone in need? However, knowing the signs to spot and red flags to look out for can save you from donating to a scammer you think is a worthy cause. 

Life

Scammers Are Posing as Sheriffs—What To Know About the Concerning Call

Receiving a phone call from an unknown number can certainly catch you by surprise—especially when the person on the other end claims to be with law enforcement. If that weren’t concerning enough, many Americans are finding the officers are calling them to say they are about to get arrested! Due to the influx of these […]

How social media makes you vulnerable

Scammers can discover your house of worship in a number of ways, but social media is a big one. Posting photos of yourself at a church or synagogue or even simply following the social media accounts associated with your parish can make you vulnerable. Being mindful of what you share publicly is crucial.

What do you if you’re targeted by a church scam

If you discover you’re being targeted in this way, it’s best to alert your place of worship immediately. This way, they can notify fellow worshipers to be on the lookout for similar attempts at scamming them.