Important Fraud Alert: Protect Yourself from Phone Spoofing Scams!
It has come to our attention that some fraudsters are attempting to deceive our members by spoofing our credit union's phone number. We are taking this matter very seriously, and we want to ensure that you are well-informed and equipped to protect yourself from falling victim to these scams.
What is Phone Spoofing? Phone spoofing is a technique used by scammers to manipulate the caller ID display on your phone, making it appear as if the call is coming from a trusted source—in this case, our credit union. This deceptive tactic is designed to gain your trust and trick you into sharing sensitive information, such as your account details or personal identification numbers (PINs).
How to Identify Spoofed Calls: While it can be challenging to identify spoofed calls, there are a few signs that can help you stay vigilant:
- Caller Urgency: The scammer might create a sense of urgency or fear, pressuring you to act quickly without giving you time to think or verify the call.
- Request for Personal Information: Neches employees will never call you and ask for your personal information, such as account numbers, passwords, or PINs, over the phone. Be cautious if someone claiming to be from the credit union asks for such details.
- Unusual Requests: Be wary of any unusual requests, such as wiring funds to unfamiliar accounts, purchasing gift cards, or sending money via unconventional methods. Always double-check with our official channels before taking any action.
How to Protect Yourself: To safeguard your finances and personal information, please follow these essential security measures:
- Verify Caller Identity: If you receive a call that seems suspicious, hang up and contact our credit union directly using our official phone number, email, or secure messaging channels. Our trained staff will be able to assist you and validate the legitimacy of the call.
- Never Share Sensitive Information: Remember, we will never request sensitive information over the phone. Do not disclose personal details, passwords, PINs, or account numbers to anyone claiming to be from the credit union, unless you have initiated the call using our official contact information.
- Stay Informed: Regularly visit www.nechesfcu.org and our social media platforms for updates on security practices, fraud prevention tips, and the latest news. Being informed is the best defense against scams.
- Report Suspicious Activity: If you believe you have been targeted by a spoofing scam or have encountered any suspicious activity, please report it to our fraud department immediately. Your prompt action will help us investigate and prevent further incidents.