July is Military Consumer Month. Sadly, scammers frequently target military families, veterans, and active-duty service members, by attempting to steal money, benefits, or personal information. Military Consumer Month is a great time to learn the warning signs and have conversations to help protect the people who have served our country.
One of the best ways to fight scams is simply by talking about them. If someone you know has fallen victim to a scam, remind them they’re not alone. Scammers are skilled at creating convincing stories, and anyone can be targeted. Sharing experiences can help others recognize similar tactics before it’s too late.
Some common scams targeting the military community include:
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- Fake VA representatives asking for personal information.
- Fraudulent benefits or pension offers.
- Employment scams promising military-friendly jobs.
- Fake charities claiming to support veterans.
- Imposter scams pretending to be government agencies.
You can reduce your risk by following a few simple habits:
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- Be cautious of unsolicited phone calls, emails, or text messages asking for personal or financial information.
- Verify organizations by contacting them directly using official phone numbers or websites.
- Never feel pressured to act immediately. Scammers often create a false sense of urgency.
- Talk with trusted family members or friends before sending money or sharing sensitive information.
If you believe you’ve encountered a military-related scam, reach out to us at Guthrie County State Bank. Speaking up not only helps protect you—it helps protect others in your community!