Fraud Awareness

Ransomeware Attack

Click here if you have been a victim of ransomware attack.

DUE TO THE INCREASE OF INTERNATIONAL FRAUDULENT ACTIVITY, OUR DEBIT CARDS CAN NO LONGER BE USED INTERNATIONALLY. We Suggest using a credit card when traveling outside of the United States. Our credit card has low interest rates and low international fees. Apply now or call us for more information at (301) 306-0610.

Account Warning

Protecting your account is a top priority for IBEW 26 Federal Credit Union.

We advise members to be diligent and monitor their accounts, as this is the first line of defense in identifying fraud

If you notice any suspicious activity on your Visa Platinum Credit Card, call (877) 602-8968 (24/7) or Debit Card, call Debit Card Fraud Line (24/7): (833) 305-5913.

Identity Theft Awareness

NCUA offers extensive information to help consumers identify frauds and scams with information on the different types of frauds and scams. As well as what to do if you fall victim.

Please also inform the Credit Union if you fall victim to Identity Theft.

When traveling out of the country, be sure to check your account for suspicious activity. Recently, there have been reports of scammers using Bluetooth ATM skimming, where the device is installed internally, making it undetectable from the exterior.

ATM Skimming

Criminal Groups are using ATM Skimmers to withdraw money from members’ accounts. The skimmer allows them to read the debit card and PIN for accounts. These devices snap into place without adhesives or magnets and are of superb quality.

These groups NEVER leave their devices unattended. They arrive on foot and then monitor from nearby vehicles parked in an adjacent parking lot. If a device is discovered, do not leave the device or attract attention. Contact law enforcement as discreetly as possible. The suspects will remove the devices as soon as you leave them unattended.

Lost/Stolen Debit/Credit Cards (833) 305-5912.

Phishers Use Fake Caller ID Numbers

In a new phishing scam, con artists are using phony caller ID numbers to solicit personal information and money. The “spoofers” are able to convince victims that they’re receiving a call from a bank, credit union, or credit card company. The scammers use this technique to acquire sensitive personal and financial information, or even money, from their victims.

Protect yourself by following these steps:

  • Do not assume that the information displayed on your phone, regarding who the caller is, is accurate. It can easily be spoofed.

  • Never give out personal or financial information over the telephone unless you know EXACTLY whom you’re dealing with.

  • If you have doubts about who’s on the phone, call back the number of record at your financial institution or credit card company.

VISHING

Vishing is when a caller uses an automated dialing system. The voice system may use phrases such as, “Please contact us immediately about the closing of your account.” The caller will try to trick you in to calling a toll-free number. But that number belongs to a thief, who will collect the financial information you will be asked to enter on your phone’s keypad, like your 16-digit card number.

Take measures to protect your sensitive information:

  • Never give personal or financial account information over the telephone if you did not initiate the contact—even if the caller has some of your personal information. Simply hang up.

  • Be suspicious of any email that’s short or harsh in tone or contains grammatical errors. Delete it immediately.

  • Be suspicious of any phone or email contact that does not use your first and last name.

  • Be cautious when asked to enter information into automated phone prompts.

  • Avoid clicking on links from unsolicited emails.

  • Never dial an unfamiliar return phone number received from an email or phone call regarding any financial matter. Check your financial institution’s phone number listed on your account statement or back of your credit card.

  • Report suspected fraudulent calls or emails to the Federal Trade Commission at www.consumer.gov/idtheft. Forward phishing emails to the Anti-Phishing Working Group at reportphishing@antiphishing.org.

If you think you’ve been caught in a phishing or vishing scam, contact your financial institution immediately

Credit Awareness

Learn how to improve your credit score! Set up an appointment with us to learn more about how credit works, credit scores, and the credit bureaus. Find out how your score is calculated and learn tips to help you improve your credit rating. The appointment is free and available to all our members. You can contact us at (301) 306-0610 or information@ibew26fcu.com to set up your appointment. Appointments can be done in the office or over the phone.

Check your credit score for free and get monthly updates!

Look for the credit score icon on the right-hand side of your online banking account page once you’ve logged in. For instructions on how to access your credit score via your mobile device, please download these instructions: Credit Sense on Mobile Banking.