MakingCents with Navy Federal
Welcome to MakingCents, a podcast brought to you by Navy Federal Credit Union. Your hosts, Emily Bigham and Brandi G., will be chatting with Navy Federal's experts on how to help you make sense of your money. As members of the military, veterans and their families, financial health can mean anything from transitioning to civilian life, re-thinking your budget during a time of economic uncertainty, discussing how to have “the money talk” with family, and so much more. Emily and Brandi are here to ask the right questions and make sure you’re getting the information you need to make the most of your money. Subscribe today and tune in each week. Tell us the financial questions you want answered, today.
You can reach Emily, Brandi and the team at makingcents@navyfederal.org. From Emily, Brandi and the team, welcome to MakingCents—"Making Your Financial Health Our Mission."
MakingCents with Navy Federal
Romance Scams: Protecting your Heart and your Wallet
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In this episode of MakingCents, host Emily Bigham talks with Carrie Foran Sepulveda, Vice President of Fraud and Physical Security Strategy at Navy Federal, about romance scams — an increasingly common form of fraud, especially in the digital age when many people are seeking connection online.
Together, they explain how romance scams work, the common red flags to watch for, and why these schemes can be so emotionally and financially damaging. Carrie shares insights from working directly with members, emphasizing how trust and emotional connection are often exploited, and why anyone can be vulnerable.
Listeners will also learn practical steps to protect themselves, what to do if something feels off, and how Navy Federal supports members through fraud prevention and recovery, ensuring no one has to navigate these situations alone. Want to take the next step toward protecting your money?
- Real Romance Scam Stories (00:58)
- Recognizing Red Flags (11:29)
- Practical Steps to Protect Yourself (20:43)
Check out these resources designed to help you stay informed and secure.