Beware the Wolves

Protecting Yourself from Financial Scammers

Friday, November 6, 2025

At Riverfront Capital Strategies, we believe financial security begins with knowledge. While

technology has made managing money more convenient, it has also opened new doors for scammers. These fraudsters don’t just target the wealthy—they target the trusting, the busy, and the unsuspecting. Their methods are clever, their timing is precise, and their goal is simple: to separate you from your money.

Staying informed is your first and strongest line of defense.

Common Scams and How They Work

1. Phishing and Impersonation Scams

Fraudsters often pose as banks, government agencies, or even your financial advisor. They’ll send alarming emails, texts, or calls urging you to “verify” information or “secure” your account.

Red Flag: Legitimate institutions will never ask for passwords, full Social Security numbers, or money transfers by email or text. Always contact your advisor or institution directly through known channels.

2. Investment and “Too Good to Be True” Offers

Scammers pitch high returns with little or no risk, often using polished websites and fake success stories. They count on greed and fear of missing out.

Red Flag: True investments carry real risk. If it sounds too good to be true, it almost certainly is.

3. Romance and Relationship Scams

Online con artists build emotional connections over time—then invent a crisis that “requires” your financial help.

Red Flag: Anyone you haven’t met in person who asks for money is not what they claim to be.

4. Tech Support and Account Recovery Scams

Fraudsters impersonate customer support or security teams, warning of “compromised accounts.” They request remote access or ask you to move money to a “safe account.”

Red Flag: No real company will ever ask you to move funds or share security codes.

5. Social Media and Crypto Scams

Scammers use social media to promote fraudulent crypto or investment schemes, often impersonating financial professionals or influencers.

Red Flag: Be wary of any investment pitch sent through direct message or advertised on social media.

How to Defend Yourself

• Slow Down and Verify – Scammers thrive on panic. Take a breath, hang up, and call back using verified contact information.

  
  

• Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) – Add an extra layer of protection to your online accounts.

  
  

• Monitor Accounts Regularly – Review statements and alerts for unusual activity.

  
  

• Be Cautious About Personal Information – Limit what you share online. Small details can help criminals build a convincing profile.

  
  

• Partner with a Trusted Advisor – Your Riverfront advisory team can help verify opportunities, detect inconsistencies, and protect your long-term strategy.

  
  

If You Suspect Fraud

If you think you’ve been targeted:

• Stop communication immediately.

• Notify your bank and your advisor at once.

• Report it to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC.gov) or IC3.gov (the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center).

• Save evidence—emails, texts, or screenshots—for investigators.

A Final Word from Riverfront Capital Strategies

Helping protect your financial well-being is more than our profession—it’s our promise. As fraudsters evolve, so do we, strengthening our systems and educating our clients. If you ever feel uncertain about a request or opportunity, call your Riverfront advisor first.

Your financial security is our shared priority.

Ashley Jackson

Investment Operations/Client Service

This material is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Riverfront Capital Strategies is not responsible for losses resulting from fraud or cybercrime. Always consult your financial advisor before acting on investment opportunities.

Riverfront Capital Strategies

Guiding Wealth. Building Legacy.