RPC's Internet Safety Tips

Scam Warning

Please be aware that, on occasion, unusual emails that request money, help, and/or aid, are sent out to congregants under the guise of RPC staff.

Below are a few tips to discern whether an email you’ve received might be from a scammer.

What’s the Email Address?

Check where your email is coming from. Contact names are easily spoofed, but email addresses are not. Trusted emails include those with an “ ” suffix, any email listed on our staff page, any emails that you've shared long-term correspondence with, and any email listed in our announcements (i.e. bulletins, weekly updates, and Grace Notes.)

What’s in the Message?

Does this message contain an unusual level of secrecy and urgency?
Scammers are phishing for an immediate, impulsive reply. They hope that you won’t get a second
opinion which might refute their credibility.

Does this message request that you email rather than call?
Scammers are easily disproven when you call the supposed sender.

Does this message include an incredibly vague request?
Scammers may try and draw you out by withholding key information. If you reach out to clarify their request, then they’ve learned that you’re willing to respond to their emails.

Does this message include a request for money, help, and/or aid?
Scammers ultimately want to collect money or information. A scammer is likely to ask for money for personal use, while our staff will exclusively use trusted channels for causes such pledging, donating, and volunteering.

What’s Next?

Don’t reply!
If you suspect you might be the target of a scam, don’t reply to the message in question. You can, however, keep the message in your inbox, as it allows others to check the contents and give you a second opinion.

Reach out.
We encourage you to call or send an email (a new message, not a reply) to one of the verified addresses on our staff page. Ask specifically about the contents of the message you received, and we’ll help you verify whether this message came from us.

You can call the Church Office at 914-967-0842. Our office hours are 9:00 a.m. through 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.