Is That Really a Text From My Credit Union?
In recent times, there has been a significant surge in phishing scams, with fraudsters attempting to obtain personal information through deceptive text messages and emails. This increase can partly be attributed to advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI) software, which has allowed scammers to become more sophisticated in their approaches. Even messages appearing to be from your credit union or other frequently used businesses may not always be genuine.
Previously, scam emails and texts were often easy to identify due to mangled sentence structures, poor grammar, or spelling mistakes. However, scammers now have the ability to leverage AI to generate messages in flawless English, mimicking legal documents, utility bills, or even messages from your credit union.
To safeguard your credit union account and protect yourself from scammers, it is crucial to exercise caution when encountering any text or email that exhibits the following characteristics:
Originates from an unknown number claiming to be your credit union, indicating an issue with your account.
Requests your personal and confidential information, including online banking credentials, one-time passcodes, Social Security number, account number, debit or credit card details, PIN, or CVV.
Utilizes scare tactics or creates a sense of urgency, pressuring you to act immediately to prevent a potential disaster.
Asks you to transfer money via a link provided within the message.
If you receive such a request, refrain from clicking on any links or responding to the message. Instead, contact your credit union immediately at 888-554-9328 to report the incident. Capture a screenshot of the message and forward it to your credit union for their records. Additionally, consider reporting the incident to law enforcement or the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). Finally, delete the message and block the sender. In the event that you clicked on a link or replied to the message, notify your credit union immediately for further assistance in securing your account.
At Garden Savings Federal Credit Union, we prioritize the security and protection of our members' accounts. We want to remind you that we will never ask for your personal information via text message or any other unsolicited means. Be cautious, stay vigilant, and remember to save our contact numbers to your phone: 973-576-2000 or 888-554-9328. Furthermore, save our official website URL to your phone as well: GardenSavingsFCU.org. Do not visit any sites purporting to be Garden Savings FCU, as they may be fraudulent.
By following these guidelines and remaining aware of potential scams, you can help ensure the safety of your personal and financial information.
In addition, Garden Savings FCU offers Digital Banking services that provide advanced security tools to help members manage their accounts securely from their phones. With features like Multi-Factor Authentication, members can add an extra layer of protection to their accounts. The Secure Lock app enables users to have control over their debit and credit cards, allowing them to lock and unlock them as needed. Real-Time Alerts ensure that members receive immediate notifications about any account activity, keeping them informed and empowered. Additionally, Garden Savings FCU provides convenient access to Mobile Wallets, allowing members to make secure payments using their smartphones. With these robust security measures, members can confidently manage their finances while keeping their information safe and secure.
Learn More About Digital Banking Tools
Garden Savings Federal Credit Union
The local credit union in your neighborhood.
A Better Place to Bank.
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