BY RENEE GARCIA, DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS AND OUTREACH
Have you recently received an email offering a “pension review” or a “retirement consultation” that looks like it might be from the New Mexico Educational Retirement Board?
We have noticed a seasonal increase in third-party advisors contacting our members. While these firms often use names or email addresses that look nearly identical to ours, it is important to know that they are not affiliated with NM ERB.
How to Spot a Third-Party Solicitation
These private consultants are often looking to sell financial products or services outside of your state pension. Here are a few things to look for:
- False Urgency: They often use high-pressure language, suggesting you must meet with them immediately to “claim” or “review” your benefits.
- The Fine Print: Most of these emails include an easy to miss disclaimer at the very bottom stating they are not associated with ERB or any legitimate government agency.
- Phony Familiarity: They may pretend to know you, use your name, and imply they already have your records. Don’t be fooled, your official pension data remains secure with ERB.
What Should You Do?
If you receive a suspicious email, your best course of action is to simply delete it. You are under no obligation to respond to these invitations.
Our Commitment to You
Your trust and security are our top priorities. NM ERB will never send you unsolicited emails asking for sensitive personal information or pressured consultations. When we reach out, it will always be clearly branded from our official office.
We have posted a formal Third-Party Advisor Statement on our website, NM Educational Retirement Board.
Still unsure? If you ever have a question about the validity of a communication, please contact us directly at 1-800-663-1919. We are always happy to help you verify that you are speaking with an official ERB representative.