Generally, if it's too good to be true - it probably isn't true. But here are some signs you might be facing a scam:

• You're contacted out of the blue about something you didn't already know about
• You're asked to pay with a non-standard form of payment, like a prepaid gift card or wire transfer
• You're told the situation is an emergency
• You're told to keep the circumstances a secret
• You're being pressured into acting immediately
• You're told something scary - like your loved one is in danger or your computer has been hacked
• You're asked for personal or financial information
• You received a check in the mail you weren't expecting
• You're asked to deposit a check and return some of the funds back
• You're asked to pay money to receive a prize, or to get a job

Remember, fraudsters like to pretend to represent companies you know. They pretend to represent the IRS, the government, and even your credit union. Be especially cautious when you receive communications from places you know that involve situations listed above.