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Scam Free COS

Identity Theft

Image by Nadine E

Identity theft occurs when someone steals personal information—such as Social Security numbers, credit card details, or bank account credentials—to commit fraud or other crimes. This can lead to unauthorized purchases, new accounts opened in your name, and serious damage to your financial reputation. Many victims are unaware until they spot suspicious activity or receive bills for accounts they never opened. To protect yourself, safeguard personal information, monitor your financial accounts regularly, lock down your credit bureaus, and report any unusual activity immediately.

  • Your Financial Institution

    • Contact your bank or credit union directly

  • Colorado Springs Police Department

  • The Better Business Bureau of Southern Colorado

Local

  • Attorney General's Office (Colorado)

  • Stop Fraud Colorado 

  • Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI)

State

  • Federal Trade Commission (FTC) 

  • Social Security Administration

  • Internal Revenue Service​

  • Internet Crime Complaint Center 

Federal

National

Image by Avery Evans

Credit Card Fraud

Credit card fraud occurs when someone unlawfully uses another person’s credit card or account information to make unauthorized purchases or withdrawals. Common methods include phishing scams, card skimming devices, and data breaches that expose sensitive details. Victims may suffer financial losses and damage to their credit scores. To protect yourself, regularly review your account statements, your credit bureau, use secure payment methods, and promptly report any suspicious activity to your card issuer and law enforcement.

Local

  • Your Financial Institution

    • Contact your bank or credit union directly

  • Colorado Springs Police Department

  • The Better Business Bureau of Southern Colorado

State

  • Attorney General's Office (Colorado)

  • Stop Fraud Colorado 

  • Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI)

Federal

  • Federal Trade Commission (FTC)​

  • Social Security Administration

  • Internal Revenue Service​

  • Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3)

National

Tax Scams

Image by Olga DeLawrence

Tax scams involve fraudsters impersonating tax authorities—such as the IRS—to trick individuals into paying fake tax debts or disclosing personal and financial information. Common tactics include threatening phone calls, emails, or text messages that claim the victim owes money or will be arrested if immediate payment isn’t made. Scammers may also use phishing schemes or pose as fake tax preparers to steal refunds and sensitive data. To protect yourself, verify any tax-related communication directly with the IRS directly and avoid responding to unsolicited requests for personal information.

  • Your Financial Institution

    • Contact your bank or credit union directly

  • Colorado Springs Police Department

  • The Better Business Bureau of Southern Colorado

Local

  • Colorado Department of Revenue​​

  • Stop Fraud Colorado 

  • Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI)

State

  • Federal Trade Commission (FTC) 

  • Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration​​

  • Internal Revenue Service​

  • Internet Crime Complaint Center 

Federal

National

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