In light of recent reports, the Department of Real Estate (DRE) is warning both licensees and consumers about fraudulent bank and credit union scams. Awareness and vigilance are key to protecting yourself from these scams.
Bank Website Scams
The Bank of the Sierra (BOS) has reported a fraudulent website using the domain "bksierra.org," which attempts to install malicious code. Always verify the correct web address of financial institutions. For BOS, the legitimate site is bankofthesierra.com.
Credit Union Smishing Scams
The Coast Central Credit Union (CCCU) has reported fraudulent SMS messages targeting people with the 707 area code. These messages, claiming to be from CCCU, use URLs with the inet2 domain and .org extension.
Tips to Avoid Scams
- Do not click on links or call numbers from unknown senders.
- Do not follow urgent instructions to visit a website.
- Do not share personal information like passwords or account numbers.
- Contact your financial institution if you respond to a suspicious message.
If you encounter a scam involving a DRE-licensed individual or an unlicensed person practicing real estate, file a complaint with the DRE. Stay updated with DRE Consumer Alerts and Licensee Advisories on the DRE website: DRE Newsroom.
How Armenta Realty Can Help
At Armenta Realty, we prioritize your safety and security. Our experienced team is here to guide you through the complexities of real estate transactions and protect you from potential scams. Whether you're buying, selling, or investing, we offer comprehensive mortgage products across most states in the US. Reach out to us for trusted advice and secure real estate transactions.
