Financial Literacy

CACL makes data security a high priority. It is important to recognize how fraudsters attempt to scam us and gain access to our sensitive, personal data. CACL recommends that members use this information to protect themselves from becoming a potential victim.

Identity Theft

Identity theft is when someone uses your personal or financial information without your permission. They might steal your name and address, credit card, or bank account numbers, Social Security number, or medical insurance account numbers. Here are some tips to lower your risk of becoming a victim of identity theft:

• Protect your Social Security number. Do not carry your Social Security card in your wallet.
• Check your account frequently. CACL offers online and mobile banking to review your account activity on the go. You can also review your bank statements. Report any unauthorized activity to CACL at 570-628-2400.
• Shred or destroy important documents before discarding them.
• Create strong, complicated passwords. Do not reuse the same password for multiple accounts.
• Review your credit report at least annually. Check for unauthorized credit accounts and updated addresses.
• Experian – 1-888-397-3742
• Transunion – 1-800-916-8800
• Equifax – 1-888-548-7878

What are some common types of scams?

This section contains information from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau website. Please visit their site for more information at www.consumerfinance.gov.

Debt Collection Scams – Most debt collectors will contact you to collect on legitimate debts you owe. But there are scammers who pose as debt collectors to get you to pay for debts you don't owe or that have already been paid. Do not give any personal financial information until you can verify the debt. If you are having trouble making payments, please call our Collections department at 570-628-2400

Debt settlement and debit relief scams - Debt settlement companies say they can renegotiate, settle, or in some way change the terms of a person's debt to a creditor or debt collector. If you are having trouble making payments, please call our Collections department at 570-628-2400.

Foreclosure relief scams - Foreclosure relief or mortgage loan modification scams are schemes to take your money or your house - often by making a false promise of saving you from foreclosure. If you are having trouble making payments, please call our Collections department at 570-628-2400.

Grandparent scam – If you get a call from someone who sounds like a grandchild or relative asking you to wire or transfer money or send gift cards to help them out of trouble, it could be a scam.

Imposter scams – Imposter scammers try to convince you to send money by pretending to be someone you know or trust like a sheriff, local, state, or federal government employee, or charity organization. Remember, caller ID can be faked. You can always call the organization or government agency and ask if the person works for them before giving any money.

Mail fraud – Mail fraud letters look real, but the promises are fake. A common warning sign is a letter asking you to send money or personal information now to receive something of value later.

Lottery or prize scams – Scammers will call or email congratulating you on being a winner with an ask for an upfront payment for fees and taxes. Similarly, a scammer might ask you to pay money in advance to get sweepstakes prize winnings.

Wire or money transfer fraud - Scammers use money wire transfers to steal your money. One example of a wire transfer fraud is the "grandparent scam." Once a money transfer is picked up, there is very little you can do to get your money back. If someone you don't know asks you to wire money, this is a red flag.