Energy One Credit Union is committed to protecting our members from scams and fraudulent activities. It is important to stay vigilant and informed about various schemes that may attempt to deceive you. We will never solicit confidential information such as account numbers or passwords through email, phone calls, or text messages.If you receive any suspicious communication or notices, please report them to us right away. Together, we can safeguard your financial well-being and prevent financial exploitation.

Celebrating 25 Years of Fraud Awareness and Prevention

Next week marks the 25th anniversary of International Fraud Awareness Week, a global initiative created by the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners. Each year, this week encourages individuals, families, businesses, and financial institutions to learn how fraud works and to take action to prevent it.Fraud affects people in many ways. ACFE's Occupational Fraud 2024 report estimates that organizations lose about five percent of their revenue to fraud each year. Consumers face risks too, including identity theft, phishing schemes, online shopping scams, tax fraud, and more.Fraud Awareness Week is a reminder that we all play a role in prevention. The more we understand how fraud happens, the easier it becomes to spot something suspicious before it turns into a financial loss.

Fraud Comes in Many Forms

Staying informed is one of your strongest defenses. Here are some of the most common types of fraud today:

• Identity theft
• Phishing and text-based scams
• Account takeover attempts
• Online purchase scams
• Payroll and corporate fraud
• Charity and relief scams
• Tax-related fraud
• Check fraud, which has grown again recently due to new methods criminals are using

Education is key, and the Fraud Week resource center provides several free tools that make learning simple and even a little fun.

Helpful Fraud Week Resources You Can Explore

The official Fraud Week website includes free videos, interactive tools, infographics, and guides that increase awareness and help you protect yourself and your loved ones. Below are some of the most engaging and easy-to-use options.

1. Educational Videos

Developing an Anti-Fraud Program

This three-part series features ACFE's Andi McNeal, CFE and CPA. She explains what fraud looks like in different types of organizations and shares practical steps for building a stronger fraud prevention program.

Why Do People Commit Fraud?

This video explores the Fraud Triangle, which includes pressure, opportunity, and rationalization. Understanding these factors makes it easier to recognize suspicious behavior in both personal and workplace settings.

Generative AI and Fraud

This video looks at how modern fraudsters misuse technology, including deepfakes and voice cloning. It also explains how anti-fraud professionals use technology to defend against these evolving threats.These videos are short, clear, and helpful for anyone who wants to learn more about fraud in a simple way.

2. Interactive Activities for All Ages

Fraud Mythbusters

A quick and fun way to test what you know about fraud. You might be surprised by how many common myths can put people at risk.

Fraud Week Jeo-party

A 30-question quiz game that works well for classrooms, community groups, or workplace training. It is a lighthearted way to reinforce important lessons.

Follow the Trail of Fraud

A choose-your-own-adventure style activity that allows you to walk through a fictional fraud investigation. It is a creative way to learn how fraud cases unfold.These activities are great for families, teens, and anyone who prefers learning through hands-on experiences.

3. Easy-to-Read Infographics

Infographics are perfect when you want a quick snapshot of how fraud works. FraudWeek.com provides several options, including:

• Behavioral Red Flags of Fraud
• How Fraudsters Conceal Their Crimes
• Profile of a Fraudster
• Fraud in Government Organizations
• Response to Fraud
• How Technology Is Being Used to Fight Fraud
• Internal Fraud Investigation Team Benchmarks from 2025

These infographics break down complex information into simple visuals you can review in just a few minutes.

4. Guides That Strengthen Your Prevention Efforts

For those who want practical and ready-to-use tools, FraudWeek.com offers several helpful guides:

• How to Be a Fraud Fighter in Your Organization
• Creating Ethical Workplaces
• Printable Fraud Prevention Checklist
• Fraud Prevention Check-Up
• Preventing Check Fraud, which outlines how an old scam has reappeared in new ways

These guides can be used by organizations, but they are also useful for individuals who want to assess their own risk.

5. In-Depth Reports for Deeper Insight

If you enjoy data or want a closer look at fraud trends, the ACFE offers several detailed reports relevant to today's environment. These include:

• Occupational Fraud 2024
• The Impact of Fraud at U.S. Public Companies for 2025
• In-House Fraud Investigation Teams Benchmarking Report
• Anti-Fraud Technology Benchmarking Report for 2024
• Whistleblower Hotline Benchmarking Report
• Compensation Guide for Anti-Fraud Professionals
• Fraud Awareness Training Benchmarking Report

These reports help businesses and leaders strengthen their internal controls and understand national fraud trends.

How You Can Protect Your Personal Information

Fraud prevention starts with simple habits you can practice every day. Here are steps that make a big difference:

Stay skeptical of unexpected messages

If you receive a call, email, or text asking for personal information, take a moment to verify who is contacting you. Use the official phone number or website of the organization before responding.

Use strong and unique passwords

Avoid reusing the same password across multiple accounts. Enable two-step verification when available.

Check your accounts regularly

Review your transactions through your Energy One online banking account. If you see something unusual, let us know right away.

Be cautious with links and attachments

Fraudsters often use links that appear legitimate. When in doubt, avoid clicking and reach out to the company directly.

Slow down if something feels urgent

Scammers often create a false sense of pressure to push people into quick decisions. A legitimate organization will give you time to think.

Reach out if anything feels off

Whether it is a suspicious phone call or an unusual charge, we are here to help you navigate the situation.

Our Commitment to Your Financial Safety

At Energy One Credit Union, your security is always our priority. We monitor accounts for unusual activity, invest in secure technology, and share information about emerging scams. You can depend on us to protect your confidential information and support you if anything suspicious occurs.We will never ask for passwords, PINs, or secure account details through email, text, or unsolicited phone calls. If you receive a message like this, please contact us so we can help verify it.

Join Us in Supporting Fraud Awareness

International Fraud Awareness Week is the perfect opportunity to refresh your fraud prevention knowledge and share what you learn with others. Even small efforts make a big difference.Explore a resource from FraudWeek.com, play a fraud awareness game with someone you care about, or simply take a few minutes to review your account security. Every step helps.If you ever have concerns or questions, please reach out to Energy One Credit Union. We are always here to support you and help protect your financial well-being.