Protecting Yourself from Scams

Fraud is on the rise, and it can happen to anyone. Here at Faith Connection Federal Credit Union, we want to empower you to stay safe.

Recently, some of our members have reported receiving suspicious calls claiming to be from the credit union or other false calls. Scammers often try to gain your trust and exploit your emotions.

Here's the important thing to remember: Faith Connection Federal Credit Union (FCFCU) will never contact you by text, email, or unsolicited phone call to ask for your personal information. This includes passwords, challenge question answers, Social Security numbers, or credit/debit card details.

Common Scams to Watch Out For

• Jury Duty Scam: Scammers may call claiming you missed jury duty and demand immediate payment to avoid arrest. (This is a lie.)
• Romance Scams: Someone online builds a relationship with you, then asks for money or personal information.
• Fake Tech Support: You receive a call claiming your computer is infected and they need remote access to fix it.
• Family in Need Scam: A seemingly distressed caller pretends to be a relative in trouble and needs urgent financial assistance.
• E-Check Scams Targeting Small Businesses: Scammers may pose as potential clients, often requesting services and insist on paying via e-check. They might ask for the name of your bank, which can be a red flag. Always be cautious and avoid sharing any banking details. These scams can involve overpayment followed by a request for a refund, which is later reversed, leaving you at a loss.

How Scammers May Contact You:

• Phishing: Emails or texts that look legitimate but contain malicious links or request personal information. Scammers may even use familiar names or spoof our phone number.
• Urgent Messages: They may try to pressure you with urgency or use familiar language to gain your trust.
• Phone Calls: Phone scammers can spoof a number to look like it is coming from a person or business you know. If the call sounds suspicious, hang up and call the person or place directly.

Protect Yourself:

• Be Wary of Unsolicited Contact: Don't click links or open attachments in suspicious emails or texts.
• Verify Sender Information: Look for typos or inconsistencies in email addresses and sender names.
• Never Share Personal Information: This includes passwords, PINs, one-time passcodes, Social Security numbers, and credit/debit card details.
• Report Suspicious Activity: If you suspect your FCFCU accounts have been compromised, contact us immediately at 800-282-9368.

By staying vigilant and informed, you can protect yourself from scams and keep your finances safe.