We know you work hard for your money and want to keep what you’ve earned safe. That's why we've gathered resources to help you stay informed and protected.
Each year, scammers and identity thieves steal billions of dollars from consumers. They use various methods to steal information or trick consumers into handing over money. Learn about different types of fraud, scams, and cybercrimes and how you can avoid them. As always, trust that you can contact us if something doesn’t feel right.
Common Types of Scams
Imposter Scams:
Scammers may pose as a friend, family member, or official, claiming they need money for an emergency like paying a hospital bill or posting bail. They may not only ask you to transfer money, but they may even ask for gift cards.
Check Washing:
Scammers steal checks from mailboxes and use chemicals to erase the ink, allowing them to alter names and amounts. If you’re expecting a check, retrieve your mail promptly to reduce the risk. To stay even safer, use a post office collection box for outgoing mail or ask the U.S. Post Office to hold your mail if you’ll be away for several days.
Prizes, Sweepstakes, and Lotteries:
Scammers may claim you’ve won a prize or lottery, then ask for money or account details to claim it. Real sweepstakes are free, and taxes aren’t reimbursed from the winners’ money.
Phone Scams (Spoofing):
Scammers disguise their number to appear as a trusted source. Most often, they pretend to be your bank claiming there’s an issue with your account. Spoofing is a common scam where fraudsters impersonate financial institutions or government agencies to pressure you into giving out sensitive information. Remember: we will never call asking for your online banking login, password, or card PIN.
Tips to Avoid Becoming a Victim of Spoofing
You may not be able to tell right away if an incoming call is spoofed. Be extremely careful about responding to any request for personal identifying information.
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Don’t answer calls from unknown numbers. If you do answer, hang up immediately.
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If the caller (or a recording) asks you to press a button to stop calls, hang up scammers use this to identify potential targets.
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Do not respond to questions, especially those that can be answered with “Yes” or “No.”
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Never give out personal information such as account numbers, Social Security numbers, mother’s maiden name, passwords, or PINs in response to unexpected calls.
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If someone claims to be from a company or government agency, hang up and call the official number from your account statement, phone book, or their website to confirm.
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Be cautious if you’re pressured to provide information immediately.
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Protect your voicemail by setting a password otherwise, a hacker could spoof your phone number and access it.
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Ask your phone company about call blocking tools and consider apps that block robocalls. The FCC now allows providers to block certain calls by default (learn more at fcc.gov/robocalls).
Other types of scams on the rise include investment fraud, online job scams, phishing emails, and QR code scams.
Protect Yourself from Fraud & Scams
Protect Your Identity:
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Never share account information including your online banking login, account numbers, Social Security number, or PINs.
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Avoid giving out personal information over the phone or email unless you’ve verified the source is trustworthy.
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Do not overshare on social media (for example, posting when you’re on vacation and when you’ll return). Wait until you’re home to share those photos.
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Secure your mail and properly dispose of sensitive information by shredding documents.
Monitor Your Accounts:
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Most of our accounts include free eStatements. If you notice something suspicious, report it immediately.
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You may also be able to set up text or email alerts on your debit and credit cards for real-time updates.
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Request a free copy of your credit report each year from the three major reporting agencies (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion). The only authorized site is AnnualCreditReport.com or call 877-322-8228.
Choose Strong Usernames & Passwords:
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Never use the same password or username for multiple accounts.
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Strong passwords and usernames use a string of random letters, numbers, and symbols.
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It is also good practice to update your passwords regularly.
How to Spot Suspicious Activity
Criminals often use fear or urgency to trick victims. Be cautious if you receive:
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A sudden call, text, or email about account problems.
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Requests for personal information like account numbers, Social Security numbers, or login credentials.
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Pressure to act immediately.
Legitimate institutions will not contact you out of the blue for sensitive details. If you’re unsure, hang up and call us directly using a verified number.
Additional Resources
Ensuring your privacy means following best practices to protect all of your personal and confidential information. In addition to our tips, please refer to these resources for further ways to protect your financial information.
Ways to Report Fraud or Lost or Stolen HNCU cards
Report Fraudulent Use or Block Cards for VISA® Debit Card or Mastercard®:
Lost or Stolen VISA® Debit Card or Mastercard®:
(303)-451-1146 (Day)