Why You May Be a Target—and How to Stay Vigilant
Association members—like those in TMA—are increasingly targeted by scammers because of the trust and credibility inherent in professional associations. Criminals understand that:
- Members are used to receiving communications from multiple association-related sources.
- Associations often operate with part-time or volunteer leadership, especially when it comes to finances.
- Scammers can easily access names, emails, and roles of association leaders via websites, social media, and press releases.
- Association members are often active professionals, making them ideal targets for impersonation and phishing attempts.
Cybercriminals exploit these dynamics with increasingly sophisticated tactics. As an association member, it’s important to stay alert and informed.
Common Scams Seen in Recent Years
Below are examples of scams that have targeted associations like TMA and how they typically operate:
FAKE DUES PAYMENT LINKS
Scammers send emails that look like legitimate membership renewal reminders, complete with association logos and mailing addresses. These emails contain fraudulent links to “pay your dues,” which may steal payment information or install malware.
HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF
Only pay dues by logging directly into my.turnaround.org. Never submit payment through a link you receive in an unsolicited or suspicious email.
FAKE MEMBER LISTS OR EVENT ATTENDEE LISTS FOR SALE
Scammers offer to sell you a list of TMA members or event attendees. TMA does not sell its membership or event attendee lists. This is a common scam where payment is solicited, but no list is provided.
HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF
Do not believe anyone offering you a TMA list. If you’d like to contact TMA members, use the Member Directory. Access to attendee lists for specific events varies by event. Contact the event organizer–TMA Global or the chapter–for more information about particular events and what will be made available.
CONFERENCE HOTEL BOOKING SCAMS
Around major events, scammers may pose as hotel booking services or travel agents claiming to represent TMA, sometimes requesting credit card details to “reserve” a room block.
HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF
Always book accommodations through links provided on TMA’s official conference website or communications. If in doubt, contact TMA staff directly.
FAKE INVOICES AND WIRE TRANSFER REQUESTS
Using publicly available info, scammers impersonate Board members, often targeting treasurers or financial volunteers to request urgent payments or wire transfers.
HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF
Double-check any unusual financial request—even from someone you know. Confirm by phone by calling the person back from a number you have in your own contacts or contact via a known email address instead of replying to a potentially fake address.
PHONE CALLS FROM IMPERSONATORS
Some members have received unsolicited calls asking for payment or sensitive information, falsely claiming to be from TMA.
HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF
TMA works with a telemarketing firm, Kentwood Partners, for membership outreach. They will never request or accept payment over the phone. Instead, they’ll follow up via email with a secure link.
WHO YOU MAY HEAR FROM REGARDING YOUR TMA MEMBERSHIP
When it comes to legitimate membership communications, you may hear from:
- membership@turnaround.org – Official membership reminders and notices
- propfuel@turnaround.org – Additional official membership reminders and notices
- communications@turnaround.org – Newsletters, news, and other updates from TMA
- TMA Director of Membership and Chapter Support Cheryl Mezydlo (cmezydlo@turnaround.org)
- Your chapter’s email address – For local engagement and dues support (e.g., chaptername@turnaround.org)
- Local chapter board members – Often using their own firm’s email address to follow up with members who are up for renewal or whose membership has lapsed
- Kentwood Partners – This is a TMA-authorized telemarketing firm we engage when we have been unable to reach members through more traditional means. They will never ask for payment over the phone, but they will follow up on phone conversations by providing a secure link to pay your invoice. These emails come from TurnaroundManagementAssn@kentwoodpartners.com
Best Practices for Staying Safe
- Always verify the sender’s email address.
- Avoid clicking on unsolicited links. Instead, go directly to my.turnaround.org to access your account and pay invoices.
- Contact TMA if you’re unsure. When in doubt, reach out to membership@turnaround.org or your chapter before taking action.
- Report suspicious emails so we can investigate and alert others.
Have Questions or Need to Report a Scam?
Email membership@turnaround.org or contact your chapter leadership. Your awareness helps protect the entire TMA community.
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