Fraud Awareness for Families: Protecting What Matters Most
International Fraud Awareness Week takes place the week of November 10th, making it the perfect time for families and household decision makers to pause and assess how protected their finances, identities, and communication channels really are. For busy professionals balancing work, children, and evolving responsibilities, fraud prevention is not a one-time task. It is an ongoing part of financial well-being.
Below we highlight the main fraud types currently targeting families, how they work, and practical steps to avoid becoming a victim.
1. Imposter or “Family Member in Trouble” Scams
A very emotionally charged fraud involves scammers posing as a relative, often a grandchild, or as an authority figure claiming a family member is in trouble. They create urgency and pressure you to act fast, usually demanding money or gift cards.
How to avoid it:
- Pause and verify before acting. Hang up and call the relative directly using a known number.
- Never send money via wire transfer, gift card, or cryptocurrency.
- Be alert to voice cloning scams that replicate a loved one’s voice.
- Talk with children and older relatives about these scams and establish a family rule to always verify first.
2. Online Shopping and Subscription Scams
Fraudsters often use fake websites, ads, and social media posts to trick families into buying products that never arrive or signing up for “free trials” that charge hidden fees later.1,2
How to avoid it:
- Shop only from trusted websites with secure payment options.
- Use credit cards instead of debit cards for better fraud protection.
- Regularly review household subscriptions and cancel any you do not recognize.
- Remind kids and teens to be skeptical of online deals that seem too good to be true.
3. Investment and Job Opportunity Scams
Busy and entrepreneurial families can be targeted with “can’t miss” investments or remote job offers that promise easy money. Many of these are designed to steal funds or personal information.
How to avoid it:
- Be cautious of anyone promising guaranteed returns or quick profits.
- Research companies and verify registrations before investing.
- Never pay upfront fees for a job opportunity.
- Discuss potential opportunities with your family or advisor before acting.
4. Identity Theft and Account Takeover
Fraud is not always about sending money. It can involve stealing personal data to open credit lines, redirect funds, or access your accounts. Children’s identities are increasingly being used because they often go unchecked for years.3
How to avoid it:
- Use strong and unique passwords and enable two factor authentication.
- Check credit reports annually for all adults and periodically for children.
- Keep devices and software updated and teach everyone in the household how to recognize phishing messages.
Have a plan for what to do if you suspect an account has been compromised.
5. Deepfake and Voice Cloning Scams
With today’s technology, scammers can sound or even look like the people closest to us. A call or message from a loved one might seem genuine, which is why it’s important to take a moment to double-check before responding.
How to avoid it:
- Create a family passphrase that must be used before discussing urgent financial requests.
- Verify through a separate channel before sending money or personal details.
- Make sure all generations in the household are aware of this emerging threat.
Staying a Step Ahead
Fraud Awareness Week is an opportunity to start a family conversation about safety. Use it to review passwords, set up verification steps, and remind everyone to slow down and think before acting on emotional requests. Treat fraud prevention as an essential part of your household’s financial wellness plan.
We Are Here to Help
If you believe you or a family member may have fallen victim to fraud, our advisor team is here to help. We can assist you in reviewing your accounts, coordinating with your financial institutions, and strengthening protections going forward.
Reach out to our office any time. You are not alone, and quick action can make all the difference.
- https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/data-visualizations/data-spotlight/2023/10/social-media-golden-goose-scammers. Accessed 10/24/2025
- https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/fraudtactics/ Accessed 10/24/2025
- https://nypost.com/2024/03/20/lifestyle/kids-are-at-high-risk-of-identity-theft-experts-warn-heres-how-parents-can-protect-them/. Accessed 10/24/2025
Investment Advisory Services offered through Trek Financial LLC., an (SEC) Registered Investment Advisor.
Information presented is for educational purposes only. It should not be considered specific investment advice, does not take into consideration your specific situation, and does not intend to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any securities or investment strategies. Investments involve risk and are not guaranteed, and past performance is no guarantee of future results. For specific tax advice on any strategy, consult with a qualified tax professional before implementing any strategy discussed herein. Trek 25-337