Fraud can happen to anyone — but when you know the warning signs, you can stop scammers in their tracks. We’re here to help you stay informed, stay prepared, and stay one step ahead.
Kansas Credit Unions are working together to help protect your money, your identity, and your peace of mind.
Fraud is a growing problem in Kansas, especially for seniors, families, and small businesses. That’s why credit unions across our state have joined forces to launch Fight the Fraud — a statewide effort to raise awareness, share prevention tools, and help protect our communities.
We’re not here to scare you — we’re here to empower you. When Kansans look out for each other, scammers don’t stand a chance.
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Common Ways Scammers Target Kansans
Know the signs — and you’ll know how to stop them.
Text Message Scams
The Scam: You get a text or email that looks real — from your bank, a delivery service, or even a streaming account.
The Goal: Get you to click a link and enter your login, account, or personal information.
“Authority” Scams
The Scam: Someone pretends to be the IRS, Social Security, a law enforcement officer, or even family who “needs help right now.”
The Goal: Create urgency and pressure you into sending money or revealing private account information.
Toll Scams
The Scam: You receive a text saying you owe money for an unpaid toll, — often with a link to “pay now to avoid fees.”
The Goal: Get you to click the link and enter your debit/credit card information or online banking login.
Online Shopping Scams
The Scam: Fake items, fake sellers, fake buyers, or someone asking to move the payment “off the platform” to avoid fees.
The Goal: Take your money or your merchandise — with no real sale in return.
Card Skimmer Fraud
The Scam: A small device is placed on a card reader to capture your card number when you swipe or insert your card.
The Goal: Use your card info later to make unauthorized withdrawals or purchases.
Elder & Caregiver Targeting
The Scam: Scammers reach out by phone, mail, or in person — building trust and then asking for money, or access to accounts.
The Goal: Exploit isolation, confusion, or good intentions.
Fraud by the Numbers
$10 Billion
Lost to fraud in the U.S. last year
2.6 Million
Americans reported fraud
$500
Median amount lost per incident
Real Stories
When You Know the Signs, You Can Stop Scams
“I got a text saying I owed a toll fee. I almost clicked — but something felt off. I called my credit union first, and they confirmed it was a scam.”
Alice - Hutchinson
“A caller said my grandson was in trouble and needed money. I checked with family before sending anything — and it turned out to be a scam.”
Bernice - Hays
“Someone emailed me saying my account was locked. Instead of clicking the link, I signed in through my credit union’s website. Everything was fine — the email was fake.”
Ronald - Overland Park
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions? You’re not alone. Here are some of the most common things Kansans want to know about the Fight the Fraud campaign and how to stay safe from scams.
What is the Fight the Fraud campaign?
Fight the Fraud is a statewide education initiative focused on helping Kansans recognize, avoid, and report scams. The campaign provides clear, practical information to help protect your finances, your identity, and your peace of mind.
Who is leading this campaign?
Fight the Fraud is organized by the Kansas Credit Union Association in partnership with credit unions across Kansas. Credit unions have a long history of helping their members stay financially secure, and this campaign is part of that mission to support and strengthen our communities.
How can I tell if a message is a scam?
Scammers often try to rush you or make something feel urgent — like a late bill, a missed package, or a family emergency. If the message asks you to click a link, share personal information, or send money quickly, pause and verify using a phone number or website you trust.
What should I do if I think I’ve been targeted?
Stop communication immediately — don’t reply, click links, or send money. Then contact your credit union right away. They can help secure your accounts, check for unauthorized activity, and guide you through what to do next.
How can I stay ahead of new scams?
The best protection is awareness. Visit our website for current scam examples, prevention tips, and reporting steps.
