Protecting Your Money This Cybersecurity Awareness Month

October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, and at SLO Credit Union we’re using it to help our members and neighbors across San Luis Obispo County stay one step ahead of fraudsters. Scams today are faster, more convincing and more personal than ever, thanks to fake texts, spoofed phone calls and even AI-generated voices.

As a not-for-profit, member-owned credit union, our mission goes beyond banking. We believe fraud and scam prevention starts with education. When you know the warning signs of phishing scams, identity theft and online banking fraud, you can stop criminals before they reach your accounts.

Below, we break down the scams we see most often, answer the top fraud prevention questions we hear from members, and explain what to do if you think you’ve been targeted.

Common Scams to Watch for in 2026

Fraudsters target everyone, from Cal Poly students to retirees. Here are some common scams to watch for:

• Phishing and smishing scams: Fake emails and text messages that appear to come from your credit union, a delivery company or a toll agency, urging you to click a link and “verify” your account.
• Impersonation calls (vishing): Callers who spoof a legitimate phone number and claim to be from your financial institution’s fraud department, the IRS or law enforcement.
• AI voice cloning scams: Criminals use a short recording of someone’s voice to impersonate a family member in an “emergency” who needs money fast.
• Payment app scams: Requests to send money through Zelle, Venmo or Cash App for a deal, a refund or to “move your money to safety.”
• Romance and investment scams: Online relationships that slowly lead to requests for money or “can’t-miss” cryptocurrency investments.
• Elder fraud: Grandparent scams, fake tech support and lottery or sweepstakes schemes that target older adults.

The best fraud prevention starts with a few simple habits. Staying alert, verifying unexpected requests, and thinking twice before sending money can help you spot scams and protect your finances year-round.

Everyday Habits to Keep Your Finances Safe

Pause Before You Click or Pay

Scammers rely on panic. Before clicking a link, sending money, or sharing a code, stop and ask: Did I expect this message? Is someone rushing me? Legitimate organizations will give you time to verify a request. If anyone asks you to pay with gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency, or a payment app, treat it as a major red flag.

Secure Your Online Accounts

Strong online banking security starts with your login. Turn on two-factor authentication, use a different password for every account, and never share one-time passcodes with anyone, even someone claiming to be from your credit union. Keep your phone, computer and apps updated so criminals can’t exploit known security gaps.

Watch Your Accounts Closely

Set up account and card alerts so you know the moment a transaction posts or someone logs in. Review your statements every month and pull your free credit reports to catch identity theft early. The sooner you spot something unusual, the sooner you can take action.

Talk With Your Family About Scams

Elder fraud and scams targeting young adults are on the rise. Talk with older parents and grandparents about grandparent scams and fake tech-support calls, and remind college students to be wary of fake job offers and rental listings. Consider creating a family “safe word” in advance to verify emergency calls, which helps defeat AI voice cloning scams.

Stay Safe With SLO Credit Union

At SLO Credit Union, credit union fraud protection is a team effort between us and our members. We monitor for suspicious activity, but your awareness is one of the strongest defenses against scams. Share these tips with family and friends, especially older relatives and college students, who are common targets.

This Cybersecurity Awareness Month, take five minutes to turn on account alerts, make sure your passwords are strong and unique, and talk with loved ones about the scams to watch for. Small steps today can protect your hard-earned money tomorrow.

Have a question or think you’ve spotted fraud?

Call SLO Credit Union at (805) 543 – 5839, visit a branch in San Luis Obispo, or log in to online banking to review your account. We’re here to help keep your finances safe and secure.

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