Phishing Scams on the Rise

With scammers always coming up with new schemes to steal your information, it’s crucial to be aware of common tactics. Here are some ways they try to steal personal information and what you can do to protect yourself.

Recognizing Common Scam Tactics

1. They go "phishing" by using emails, texts, phone calls, or other communication to trick you into sharing passwords, account numbers, or other personal information.

• NEVER SHARE YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION. Security Service will never initiate a call, text, or email requesting your one-time passcode/activation code, online banking password, username, and account or personal information.

2. They create a sense of urgency by telling you there is a problem that requires your immediate action.

• SLOW DOWN. Was the call, email, or text unexpected? Did the message include unknown or suspicious links? Is the caller pressuring you to act quickly? If you answer ‘yes’ to any of these questions, it could indicate a scam. Hang up and don’t respond.

3. They pretend to be your credit union by disguising their phone number, website, or email address to look like a trusted source and convince you to share your personal information.

• IF YOU’RE UNSURE, DON’T RESPOND. Don’t hesitate to hang up and contact your credit union using a known phone number or website.

Best Practices

In addition to the actions outlined above, follow these best practices to protect your personal information:

• Do not click on links in emails or texts asking for personal information. Never open unexpected attachments.
• Do not respond to texts from numbers you don't recognize.
• Change your passwords on a regular basis and avoid using the same one.
• Set up card alerts* to be notified if transactions exceed your set limit.
• Keep your contact information current so we can contact you if we identify suspicious activity.

At Security Service, protecting your information is our top priority. If you suspect a scam, do not respond or click on the message.

 

 

*Standard data and text messaging rates may apply. Alerts are based upon the settings you establish. Most alerts are provided real-time, but some may not trigger an immediate alert. Security Service is not responsible for an alert not being sent or received.