The holidays are upon us, and fraudsters are ready to take full advantage of any opportunity, knowing that we are busy traveling, shopping, and spending time with friends and family.

Schwab has identified new threats targeting clients.

Imposters are posing as Schwab employees and contacting clients via phone and other channels, including email and text messages.

Scammers are also creating fake websites that appear in search results to be trusted institutions, like Schwab. When clients visit these sites, they are exposed to phishing attacks to steal client information and assets.

How can I protect myself?

1)     Avoid supplying any personal identifying information in an email or over the phone, even if you think you’re talking to Schwab. These imposters may spoof a Schwab phone number to call the client and then identify themselves as an employee in the fraud department. Hang up immediately and call the customer service number at Schwab Alliance (800) 515-2157, 24/7 helpline (800) 435-4000.

2)     If Schwab sends you an SMS text code to verify account access, do not share this with anyone. Legitimate Schwab representatives will never ask for this information.

3)     Do not click links in text messages or emails claiming to represent Schwab. Scrutinize email addresses, URLs, and spelling used in any correspondence.

4)     Be aware of search engine optimization (SEO) driving clients to fake "Schwab" phishing sites. Fraudsters use sophisticated techniques to create websites that appear in search engines when clients are looking for Schwab or other trusted institutions. The websites are designed to look legitimate, and their position in the search results tricks users into believing the top search hits are the most credible. Go directly to the official website for Schwab, www.schwab.com. 

Please contact Schwab and AOG Wealth Management immediately to report all suspicious or fraudulent activity. You may reach out to your AOG Wealth Management team with questions and assistance at 703-757-8020.