Fraud Alerts

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Fraud Alerts

Updated: March 4, 2014

SCAM ALERT: New Credit Card Scam Moving Across the Country

The scammers provide you with all the information, except the one piece they want. Note, the callers do not ask for your card number, they already have it. They will say they are calling from the Security and Fraud Department at VISA and ask you to verify charges made to your card. They will then ask for the 3 digit code on the back of your card to issue you a credit. Do not give them any information. Hang up and call the credit union at 315-733-1596.

VISA will never ask for anything on the card; they already know the information because they issued the card. They do not need the 3 digit code from your card for any reason!

"Phishing" and "Smishing" Scams

We have recently been made aware of a tremendous increase in scams in the wake of the recent data compromises at Target and Neiman Marcus.

These are attempts to fraudulently obtain sensitive information, such as social security number, driver's license, credit card information or account information. Sometimes a scam artist will first send a benign email and then follow that up with a phishing email that usually contains a malicious link. Cyber-criminals have typically used emails to launch this type of attack, but with the widespread use of social media networks and smartphones with internet access, the types of attacks are multiplying.

These texts and emails are fraudulent and DO NOT call the numbers or click the links and give out any card or personal information.

If you suspect your card account(s) have been compromised, contact the credit union immediately.

Also, DO NOT open attachments or follow Web links in unsolicited emails from unknown parties or from parties with whom you do not normally communicate, or that appear to be known but are suspicious or otherwise unusual.

Unfortunately, the threat of fraud due to phishing attempts continues to be very active. Fraudsters are increasing in sophistication, and this type of activity shows no sign of slowing down. In these economic times, it is even more critical to be aware of the various ways fraudsters try to obtain your personal information for financial gain.

Please remember:

The credit union will NEVER solicit personal or financial information.
NEVER respond to requests for information unless you initiated the request. This includes requests via e-mail, phone, text messaging or through the mail.

If you responded to such a request and provided any confidential account information, please notify the credit union
immediately of the scheme. You should also change your account's PIN, and take any additional action recommended
by your credit union to protect your account.

Formal complaints can be filed with http://www.IC3.gov .