Raising A Red Flag on Fraud

You may not know it, but fraud is currently ravaging our Northwest Colorado communities. Crimes of this nature (such as scams) are less visible as they get little-to-no press and their victims are often silent. At YVB we want to raise awareness about fraud since we see first-hand the devastation it brings. We’ve put together helpful resources to highlight popular scams, go over what to do if you’re a victim, and share prevention tips so that we can help each other rise above deception.

It's Tax (Scam) Season

It’s everyone’s favorite time of year... Tax season! And while you’re filing, fraudsters are scheming up ways to trick you. Scammers are posing as the IRS, fake tax preparers, and even friends online to steal your refund and access your personal information. Be on high alert, and keep these tips top of mind:

• IRS won’t call, text, or email you demanding payment.
• File early to block scammers from claiming your refund.
• Only use trusted tax preparers—ghost filers vanish after filing fake returns.
• Go directly to a trusted source. Ignore texts, calls and emails regarding your taxes.

If an offer sounds too good to be true—it probably is. Stay ahead of tax fraud with Yampa Valley Bank. Learn more tips and tricks to stay safe and fight fraud at our online education center.

Hard & Fast Rules for Preventing Fraud

1. Never give out your personal information over phone or email. No financial or government institution will ever call and ask for it.
2. Don’t click links or open attachments found in emails you weren’t expecting.
3. Learn how to spot a scammer: According to the FTC, scammers often pretend to be from a business or organization you recognize.

What to do after Fraud Occurs

Fraud victims often feel embarrassment, guilt, anger, or helplessness. Scammers are skilled at psychological manipulation, using fear and desperation to their advantage. Learn how to process these emotions and take actionable steps to recover.

How to Spot a Scam

Discover the warning signs of today’s most common scams, including imposter, romance, and overpayment scams. Equip yourself with tips to identify and avoid falling victim.

Become Fraud‑Proof

Education and awareness are your best defenses against fraud. Explore prevention strategies to protect yourself and your loved ones from online and offline scams.

Guarding Against QR Code Scams

QR codes are increasingly popular but have also become a target for scammers. Learn how to identify and avoid “Quishing” (QR phishing) schemes that compromise your digital security.

Follow the link below to find these tips and more on our Fraud Education Center. If you are a victim of fraud or believe fraud may be taking place involving your information, call us in Steamboat at 970‑879‑2993, in Craig at 970‑824‑3600, or visit our website for other ways to get in touch.