How to protect your family from instant transfer scams
Summer is here – and for many families, that means camps, childcare, and community events in full swing. But while you’re managing busy schedules and sending payments through apps like Zelle, Venmo, or Cash App, scammers are getting smarter… and faster.
Meet the scam: Authorized Push Payment (APP) fraud
APP fraud happens when a scammer convinces someone to send them money – knowingly, but under false pretenses. Once the payment is made, it’s nearly impossible to reverse.
Let’s walk through how this plays out:
A real-life scenario
Jasmine, a single mom juggling work and summer logistics, gets a call from someone claiming to be with her son’s day camp. The caller sounds professional and even knows her child’s name and schedule. They explain there was an error with her registration, and she needs to send a payment immediately via Zelle to keep his spot.
Wanting to avoid last-minute chaos, Jasmine sends the payment. But when she checks with the camp directly, they know nothing about it.
She was scammed.
Why APP scams are so effective
- They rely on urgency and emotional triggers – especially when kids are involved
- They look legitimate: scammers often spoof caller ID, use real names, and impersonate organizations
- Instant payment apps don’t offer the same protections as credit cards or traditional transactions
How to stay safe (and protect your family)
Pause before you pay
If someone asks for urgent payment – even for something familiar – verify it with a trusted number or contact. Never rely on info from the message itself. Take the time to confirm the payee information displayed on the app, if the details don’t match, stop and don’t proceed with payment.
Double-check the payment method
Legitimate businesses rarely require instant transfers through Zelle or Venmo.
Turn on transaction alerts
Enable push notifications or text alerts through digital banking to track outgoing payments in real time.
Talk to your kids
Teens and young adults are common targets. Teach them to recognize red flags and avoid clicking links or sending money under pressure.
Need help securing your accounts or setting up alerts?
We’re here to help. Chat with us online or visit any Rize Credit Union location.
Make a difference this month
July is National Make a Difference to Children Month. One way to protect the next generation is to learn and share how to spot digital scams – because financial safety is part of their future security, too.
Your password is private – keep it safe!
Estamos comprometidos a proteger tu cuenta contra el fraude. Recuerda, nunca te llamaremos, enviaremos correos electrónicos ni mensajes de texto para pedir tu contraseña bajo ninguna circunstancia. Si recibes alguna comunicación solicitando información personal haciéndose pasar por Rize Credit Union, no respondas. En su lugar, llámanos de inmediato al 800.866.6474.