Scammers are Targeting Local Financial Institutions: What to Watch For

Stay Vigilant Against Scams: Protect Your Financial Security

Submitted by David Murphy, MMCCU President

It has come to our attention that scammers are once again targeting local financial institutions, including MMCCU. These scammers use clever methods to try to access your information and accounts. What starts as a seemingly helpful text message or phone call can be an attempt to steal your data and hard-earned money. I don’t write this to scare anyone, but rather to ensure you are equipped with the knowledge to help prevent fraud from happening.

As a trusted community credit union, we urge everyone to be extra vigilant with your bank and credit union accounts.

Discuss these concerns with family and friends, especially those who might not be as tech-savvy, to ensure everyone stays protected.

Key Points to Remember:

1. Unsolicited Requests: MMCCU (and most financials) will never ask for usernames, passwords, or other personal information over the phone or via unsolicited communication. If you get a call from your bank or credit union, one tip is to hang up and call them back directly to check validity.
2. Text Message Scams: Be wary of text messages claiming to confirm a purchase. Replying confirms your phone number is active, potentially leading to further scam attempts.

Steps to Take if You Are a Victim:

1. Contact Your Financial Institutions Immediately: Inform them of the potential scam to secure your accounts.
2. Freeze Your Credit:
   • Experian: Call 888-397-3742 or visit their website.
   • TransUnion: Call 888-909-8872 or visit their website.
   • Equifax: Call 800-349-9960 or visit their website.
3. Create a PIN for Your Taxes:
4. Set Up ID Monitoring Services: Consider services like Aura or LifeLock.
5. Monitor Your Credit:
6. File a Report with the Government: IdentityTheft.gov
7. Get Your Social Security Report

Other Helpful Tips:

• Enable Two-Factor Authentication on your accounts.
• Use Unique, Complex Passwords: Avoid using the same password across multiple accounts. Use a combination of upper and lower-case letters, symbols, and numbers.
• Avoid Clicking on Unexpected Links in emails or texts.
• Keep Your Anti-Virus Software Up-to-Date: Regular updates help protect against new threats.
• Password-Protect Your Network: Ensure your home and work networks are secure.

Great Resources for Data Breach and Identity Theft Information:

• Federal Bureau of Investigation
• Federal Trade Commission
• Annual Credit Report

Don’t Beat Yourself Up!

Scammers are sophisticated, and it’s easy to fall for their tricks. Remember, MMCCU is here to help you every step of the way. Stay informed, stay vigilant, and let’s protect our community together.

Sincerely,

David Murphy
President, MMCCU

For more fraud prevention tips, visit our website at www.mmccu.com/security or contact us directly at 715-387-8686.

We welcome your stories! Contact us at [email protected]!