Avoid Being Scammed
We are upset at the news that our parishioners are receiving scam emails. Smart and savvy parishioners have fallen for this scam, so please don't be embarrassed if you did as well. Also, it's always good to brush up on your ability to spot a scam. Here are a few quick reminders:
Scammers like to tell you that "Bingham" is in a meeting and can't take calls. If you receive an email from "Bingham" saying he needs immediate, discreet help and he can't take calls be suspicious! Call the office or email a staff member and check in with us.
Scammers like to ask you to help a community member or parishioner in need by buying gift cards. We will never, ever ask you to buy gift cards or wire us money!
Usually scammers will use a fake email. That is often an easier, though not foolproof, way to spot a scam.
Despite all this, scammers can be very convincing (even with what their fake email addresses look like), so please be suspicious of requests for money - especially in the form of gift cards or requests to wire money- and don't be shy, verify! You can call the office, Bingham, or another staff member. We love chatting with you and we are happy to verify whether or not a request is legitimate.
We will never call you with an immediate, emergency need for money. There will always be time to verify. In fact, if you receive an email, call, or text requesting money we would love for you to double check with us. Don't reply to the email or phone number that reaches out to you. Instead, call the main office number or start a new email to a staff member and check in about requests, especially unexpected "surprise" or "emergency" requests or requests for gift cards of any kind! We are happy to chat with you about it and as a bonus, we just love connecting with you! So, don't be shy, verify!
The diocesan office also shared some helpful information about how to avoid being scammed. You can read more using the button below.
Again:
Be skeptical of unexpected requests for money, gift cards, or sensitive information, even if they seem to come from someone you know.
Verify before you act. If you receive a suspicious message, contact the person directly using a known phone number or email. Do not reply to their email or text, start a new conversation with the contact information you have. Calling the church office is always a great option.
Check email addresses carefully. Scammers often use addresses that look similar but have small differences.
Please do not share our directory. If someone wants a copy of the directory, they should contact the church office. If you are getting rid of a paper directory, please shred it or bring it to us and let us shred it for you.
Want to stay up-to-date on St. Mary’s communication? Scroll down and sign up for our weekly eNewsletter.
