Protect Yourself from Text and Email Scams
Scammers are getting more creative, and churches are often a target because they know people want to be helpful and generous. Recently, several fake emails and text messages have gone around pretending to be from NRUMC staff or pastors. We want to make sure you know how to tell what’s real and what’s not.
Important to Remember
NRUMC staff will never ask you for a “favor,” gift cards, or other vague requests by text or email. Scammers often try to pressure you with urgent or emotional messages like:
- “Can you help me secretly with a favor?”
- "I'm in a meeting and can't talk" or "I'm visiting a member and need this now"
- “I need gift cards right away to help someone in crisis.”
- “Please don’t tell anyone, but I need this quickly.”
These are always scams. Do not reply.
How to Spot a Real NRUMC Message
Our communications will only ever come from the following:
- Email addresses ending in @nrumc.org (for personal staff communication).
- Reminder emails from @emails.church or @churchcenter.com (through our tools Text In Church or Planning Center Online).
- Texts from our official NRUMC text number: 984-464-4777.
- Personal cell phone numbers of staff you already know.
If a message comes from anywhere else, it’s likely not from us.
What To Do If You Get a Suspicious Message
- Do not reply.
- Do not click links.
- Do not purchase gift cards or send money.
- Call the church office (919-847-1536) to verify if you’re unsure.
- You can also forward the message to Pastor Jen at jswindell@nrumc.org so we are aware of it.
Quick Checklist to Stay Safe
- Does the email end in @nrumc.org?
- Did the text come from 984-464-4777 or a known personal number?
- Does the message ask for money, gift cards, or secrecy? (That’s a scam!)
- When in doubt—call the church office.
We know these scams can be upsetting. Please don’t worry if you receive one—just remember the signs, ignore the message, and let us know.
