Capitol Conversations: From Pasture to Policy Protecting Nebraskans from Consumer Fraud
Consumer fraud is becoming harder to recognize and more costly when it succeeds. Scammers use text messages, emails, social media, fake websites, and increasingly sophisticated technology to make their attempts appear legitimate. A message may appear to come from your bank, a government agency, a delivery company, or even someone you know, warning that an account has been compromised, demanding payment, or claiming that immediate action is required. While the story may change, the goal is often the same: create enough fear, excitement, or urgency that you act before stopping to question whether the request is legitimate.
The way we communicate has also changed dramatically. According to Nebraska Public Service Commission reports, telephone connections served by local exchange carriers fell from more than 561,000 in 2016 to approximately 268,000 in 2024, a decline of more than half. As Nebraskans have moved away from traditional landlines and toward mobile and online communication, scammers have followed.
The Nebraska Bankers Association is helping consumers recognize these warning signs through its “That’s a RED Flag” fraud-awareness campaign. At thatsaREDflag.com, Nebraskans can learn about common scams, warning signs to watch for, and steps to take if they believe they have been targeted.
Those resources are especially important because scams today can be remarkably convincing. Technology can disguise phone numbers and email addresses, and fraudulent websites can closely resemble legitimate ones. Even people who are careful with their personal information can be caught off guard.
One of the best protections is simply to slow the process down. Do not provide personal or financial information just because someone contacting you says the matter is urgent. Be cautious of unusual payment requests or demands that money be sent immediately. Rather than using a phone number or link provided in a suspicious message, contact the bank, business, or government agency directly using information you know is legitimate.
If you believe you have been the victim of fraud, act quickly. Contact your financial institution and report the incident to the appropriate authorities. The “That’s a RED Flag” website also provides information to help consumers understand where suspected fraud can be reported and what steps should be taken next.
Consumer fraud can have consequences far beyond a single transaction. It can drain savings, compromise personal information, and create lasting financial problems for individuals and families. In rural Nebraska, where business and daily life are built on relationships and trust, protecting ourselves and looking out for one another remains especially important.
Scammers are continually adapting the way they operate, which means we must be willing to adapt as well. A few extra minutes spent questioning and verifying an unexpected request can prevent a costly mistake and protect the financial security you have worked hard to build.
Representing District 43 means staying connected to the people and communities I have the privilege to serve. Your experiences, concerns, and ideas help inform the work I do at the Legislature, and I value hearing directly from you. Please never hesitate to reach out to me or my office. Your input is always welcome and appreciated.
Please note that my email address has changed to tanya.storer@leg.ne.gov
Respectfully,
Senator Tanya Storer
Facebook: Tanya Storer for Legislature
📩 Email: tanya.storer@leg.ne.gov
📞 Phone: (402) 471-2628
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