That text message or email might look harmless – a package delay, a job offer, a security alert from your bank. But behind that message could be a scammer ready to drain your account. In fact, most victims of fraud don’t experience an elaborate con. Most of the time, a simple action like clicking on a link without thinking or reusing a password is to blame. Last year, Arizona residents lost more than $500 million to scams. That represents a 379% increase since 2020, according to data from the Federal Trade Commission and the FBI. And experts believe the real total could exceed $3 billion, since so many cases go unreported.

It’s a serious problem, but the good news is that you don’t need to be a fraud or cybersecurity expert to protect yourself from scams in Arizona. This International Fraud Awareness Week, from Nov. 16-22, take a few minutes to build everyday habits that can help keep your money, and your peace of mind, safe.

DEEPER DIVE: Top 10 Arizona ZIP codes people are moving to in 2025

LOCAL NEWS: 100 best places to work and live in Arizona for 2025

1. Stop reusing passwords

Most people don’t realize that one of the fastest-growing scams today isn’t new at all, it’s called credential stuffing. Criminals steal usernames and passwords from one website and test them on others until they find a match. Once they gain access to your online banking account, they can transfer money to themselves or drain your account through apps like Zelle.

The fix: Use unique passwords for every site. A password manager, a secure app that stores and autofills your login information, can help you remember all your passwords and keep them organized.

2. Pause before you click

Scammers rely on urgency to get you to act without thinking. During the holidays, they might send fake shipping updates, job offers or giveaway links that look legitimate. When people are busy, expecting a package or in need of quick cash for the holidays, they often click before thinking.

The fix: Slow down and verify each message before clicking or responding. Contact the company directly using a phone number or website you trust, rather than clicking on the link in the message.

3. Be cautious with payment apps

Peer-to-peer apps like Venmo, Zelle and Cash App make it easy to split dinner or pay friends, but once you send money, it’s nearly impossible to get it back. Many marketplace scams start with a request to pay through one of these apps.

The fix: Only send money to people you know personally and have met in real life. For unfamiliar sellers or situations, use safer payment methods or meet in person in a public place when possible.

4. Speak up fast

Many people stay quiet when they suspect fraud because they’re embarrassed. Know that speed matters. The sooner you alert your financial institution, the better your chances of stopping the fraud and recovering your funds. At Desert Financial, for example, the fraud team works around the clock to help members protect their accounts.

The fix: If something feels off, trust your instincts. Pause, verify and reach out right away.

Awareness is your best defense against the increasing risk of fraud. Practicing these four habits can help you stop scammers before they steal your hard-earned money.

Author: Tom Marlowe is Senior Vice President of Operations at Desert Financial Credit Union.  Learn more about protecting yourself from fraud at desertfinancial.com/fraud.