Unsolicited Calls, Texts, eMails - Surprises are great—when they come from friends!

When someone reaches out with a call, email, or text, it can be hard to know for sure that it’s a reliable source. Check these steps off your list, and you’ll soon know if the sender is someone you can trust.

How can I tell if the sender is naughty or nice?

When someone reaches out with a call, email, or text, it can be hard to know for sure that it’s a reliable source. Check these steps off your list, and you’ll soon know if the sender is someone you can trust.

• The caller ID or text message looks just like your credit union or another trusted organization. Even if the message makes you feel like you must reply immediately, take a beat and don’t respond to that particular communication. Simply call a number you already know (for us, it’s 800.944.2200) or use a trusted website and ask if they’re trying to contact you.
• You’re asked to click a link in the message to communicate. Reputable organizations like ours will never send you a link to use for communication without you asking first. We may ask that you call in certain situations, but you’ll initiate the communication and know that you’ve reached the right place. Again, a quick call to a trusted number will clear things up fast.
• I answered a call and the person has me convinced I’m in trouble (or my family member is). Scammers tell a detailed and believable story and apply emotional pressure, making it hard to think straight. They may pretend to be police or your credit union and ask that you move funds or purchase gift cards to resolve the situation. They’ll try to keep you on the phone, but hang up. Call your trusted family member or credit union and clear things up fast.

There’s one easy way to make sure your holiday season stays happy and bright—and all it involves is slowing down. Take a deep breath and reach out in the way you normally would. Happy Holidays!

Learn more about Fraud Prevention in our Security Center.