As spring arrives in Massillon, Canton, and across Stark County, it brings travel plans, home improvements, and tax deadlines. Unfortunately, it also brings a surge in scams targeting busy consumers. At Friends & Family Credit Union, we’re committed to helping you protect your money, your identity, and your peace of mind.
Here are the top five scams to watch for this spring—and how to avoid them.
1. Unclaimed Funds Scams
If you receive a call or message claiming you’re owed money from “unclaimed funds,” be cautious. Scammers often pose as government agencies to trick you into sharing personal or financial information.
Red flags:
- Requests for sensitive information
- Pressure to act quickly
- Unexpected contact about money you didn’t claim
What to do instead:
Search for legitimate unclaimed funds through official websites—never through unsolicited calls or texts.
2. Mortgage or Debt Relief Scams
With financial pressures rising, scammers are offering “guaranteed” debt or mortgage relief—often requiring upfront fees.
Important to know:
It is illegal for legitimate companies to charge fees before providing services.
Warning signs:
- Upfront payment requests
- “Limited-time” urgency tactics
- Promises that sound too good to be true
If you’re struggling financially in Stark County, contact your lender directly or speak with a trusted financial institution like Friends & Family Credit Union for guidance.
3. Fake Traffic Violation Notices
Scammers are increasingly sending texts, emails, and letters claiming you owe unpaid tolls or traffic fines. These messages often look official—even including fake seals or QR codes.
How to spot the scam:
- Threatening language demanding immediate payment
- Suspicious links or QR codes
- Messages from unknown numbers or email addresses
Stay safe:
Always verify directly with the appropriate agency using a publicly listed phone number.
4. False Product Recall Scams
You may receive a text claiming a product you purchased has been recalled, urging you to click a link for a refund.
The catch:
These links lead to fake websites designed to steal your personal information.
What to remember:
- Legitimate recalls are posted on official retailer or government websites
- Companies typically don’t send unsolicited texts for recalls
Always verify recalls through trusted sources before taking action.
5. Weather & Contractor Scams
Spring storms in Canton, Massillon, and surrounding Stark County communities often lead to home repairs—and scammers posing as contractors.
Watch out for:
- Contractors who show up unsolicited
- Requests for full payment upfront
- Lack of licensing or written contracts
Protect yourself:
- Get multiple estimates
- Verify licenses and insurance
- Pay by check or credit card for added protection
Protect Your Identity & Finances
Scams are becoming more sophisticated, but awareness is your first line of defense. If something feels off, trust your instincts and verify before taking action.
If you believe you’ve been targeted by a scam, Friends & Family Credit Union is here to help.
Family Secure Checking Includes:
- Identity theft monitoring
- Credit file monitoring
- Dark web monitoring
- Fully managed identity recovery services
- Identity theft expense reimbursement coverage
With the right tools and local support in Stark County, you can stay one step ahead of scammers. Read more about Family Secure Checking.
Stay alert. Stay informed. Stay protected—with Friends & Family Credit Union.