Fraud Protection Tips
Phishing Attempt - Email Solicitation Using NCUA Address
A recent phishing attempt has been made to obtain member credit card account numbers, expiration dates and electronic signatures. In cases reported to the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA), the perpetrators sent fraudulent emails, representing to be from the NCUA, to credit union members and the general public.
The emails state the NCUA will add $50.00 to the member's account for taking part in a survey. The link embedded in the message directs members to a counterfeit version of NCUA's website with an illicit survey that solicits credit card account numbers and confidential personal information.
The NCUA, like Healthcare's Cooperative, will never ask credit union members or the general public for personal account or personally identifiable information as part of a survey. Any e-mail that alleges to be from the NCUA and asks for account information is fraudulent and should be treated as suspicious.
The NCUA has taken steps to shut the fraudulent site down, but all credit union members should remain alert to possible variations of this fraudulent e-mail.
Tips to Save You from an ATM Skimmer
The skimmer is becoming more and more widespread, and most of us will, sooner or later, encounter one. If you don't have your wits about you, it could cost you a bunch of cash.
A skimmer is usually composed of two sections. The first attaches to the card slot, usually covering it completely. The second is a camera, which can be very close to the card slot or some distance away, at the top of the ATM. The card reader records the electronic data from your ATM card, which the thief can use to make an exact copy of it. The camera is there to record your PIN.
Here are some tips to avoid ATM Skimming happening to you:
- Trust your instincts: If anything looks out of place on an ATM, don't use it. If you see a wire poking out, or the plastic on the card reader doesn't quite match, or there appears to be some unusual wear and tear around the card slot, walk away.
- Guard your PIN carefully: As most skimmers require two pieces of information from you, the PIN is something you can at least stop them from getting. You may seem a little paranoid to anyone waiting in line behind you, but who cares? Just cover your actions by cupping one hand over the numbers as your other hand enters them. It's rudimentary but it works.
- Take advantage of the debit card "cash back" feature: A grocery or convenience store will give you cash back if you pay for your purchase with a debit card. Simply hit the amount of cash you need. It's free, and it's safer.
- Become a creature of habit and use the same ATM each time: This won't protect you from encountering a skimmer, but you're much more likely to notice something fishy if you are familiar with the machine.
- Look for ATMs with video surveillance: These machines have extra security and this additional level of protection deters thieves from installing the skimming devices.
Finally, if you do suspect something, let the local branch, gas station, or store know: It may be a false alarm, but you could prevent someone being ripped off who isn't as vigilant as you are.
