Sending money is quick and easy, and that is exactly why scammers like it. Once a transfer is picked up, it is very hard to get the money back. The good news is that most money transfer scams follow the same patterns. In this guide, we explain the most common scams, the warning signs and how to protect yourself.
Common Money Transfer Scams
Family Emergency Scams
A caller says a relative is in jail, in the hospital or stuck at the border. Then they ask you to send money right away and keep it a secret. Often, the caller pretends to be a lawyer, a police officer or the relative.
Impostor Scams
Scammers pretend to be from the government, a bank or a well-known company. They may say you owe a fine or that your money is at risk. However, real agencies do not ask you to send money through a transfer service to “protect” it.
Prize and Lottery Scams
You get a message saying you won a prize. To claim it, you only need to pay “taxes” or “fees” first. In reality, there is no prize.
Online Sales Scams
A seller online asks you to pay with a money transfer before you see the item. After you pay, the seller disappears.
Romance Scams
Someone you met online quickly says they love you. Soon, they ask for money for travel, medical bills or an emergency. In most cases, you have never met them in person.
Warning Signs of a Scam
Most money transfer scams share these signs:
- They contact you out of the blue. You did not expect the call or message.
- They create urgency. They say you must act now.
- They ask for secrecy. They tell you not to talk to family or the transfer agent.
- They insist on a transfer. They only accept money transfers, gift cards or crypto.
- They ask for your tracking number. Only your real receiver should have it.
How to Protect Yourself From Money Transfer Scams
- Only send money to people you know. Never send to someone you have only met online or by phone.
- Verify the story. Hang up and call your relative or the company at a number you already have.
- Take your time. A real emergency can wait a few minutes while you check.
- Keep your tracking number private. Do not share it with anyone except your receiver.
- Talk to the agent. If something feels wrong, tell our team before you send.
In addition, remember that you usually have 30 minutes after you pay to cancel a transfer, as long as the money has not been picked up. So act fast if you think you made a mistake.
What to Do If You Were Scammed
First, contact the transfer provider right away and ask them to stop the transfer. Next, report the scam to the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. Finally, warn your family, because scammers often try again with someone else.
Send Money Safely With Metro Money Financial
At Metro Money Financial, we care about your safety. When you send money to Mexico with us, our bilingual team reviews each transfer with you in person. We offer Western Union money transfers at our offices on Magoffin Ave. and N. Loop Dr. in El Paso, Texas.
If you plan to send during the holidays, also read our tips for sending money to Mexico for the holidays. Questions? Call us at +1 915 351 1658.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get my money back if I was scammed?
It depends. If the money has not been picked up, you may be able to cancel the transfer. Contact the provider as soon as possible.
Will a real government agency ask me to send money?
No. Government agencies do not ask you to pay with a money transfer service or gift cards.
Is it safe to share my tracking number?
Only share it with the person who will receive the money. Anyone with that number and matching details may try to collect it.
Can Metro Money Financial help me check a transfer?
Yes. If something feels wrong, talk to our team before you send. We are happy to help.