Text Message Scam
The purpose of this fraud alert is to inform you of a scam that involves unsolicited text messages sent to cell phones. The message urges the recipient to call a number provided for information about account discrepancies and then solicits individual account information and pin numbers. Cell phone users should be wary of unsolicited text messages. Such messages should be deleted and all deleted text messages should be removed, if possible, as the perpetrators have been known to use Spyware1 in conjunction with their text message solicitation. Credit union members and personnel need to be informed of these types of scams. Such a scam could be used to obtain personally identifiable information and credit union account access information, for those who access their accounts using their cell phones.
Phishing
What is Phishing?
There's a new type of Internet piracy called "phishing." It's pronounced "fishing," and that's exactly what these thieves are doing: "fishing" for your personal financial information. What they want are account numbers, passwords, Social Security numbers, and other confidential information that they can use to loot your checking account or run up bills on your credit cards.
In the worst case, you could find yourself a victim of identity theft. With the sensitive information obtained from a successful phishing scam, these thieves can take out loans or obtain credit cards and even driver's licenses in your name. They can do damage to your financial history and personal reputation that can take years to unravel. But if you understand how phishing works and how to protect yourself, you can help stop this crime.
How Does Phishing Work?
In a typical case, you'll receive an e-mail that appears to come from a reputable company that you recognize and do business with, such as your financial institution, government agency, or a credit card company. Phishing can also occur by phone. The message will describe an urgent reason you must "verify" or "re-submit" personal or confidential information by clicking on a link embedded in the message. The provided link appears to be the Web site of the financial institution, government agency, or other well-known/reputable entity, but in "phishing" scams, the Web site belongs to the fraudster/scammer. Once inside the fraudulent Web site, you may be asked to provide Social Security numbers, account numbers, passwords, or other information used to verify your identity such as mother's maiden name or place of birth. Once this information is provided, those perpetrating the fraud can begin to access your accounts or assume your identity.
How to Protect Yourself
Never provide your personal information in response to an unsolicited request. If you believe the contact may be legitimate, contact the financial institution yourself. Never provide your password over the phone or in response to an unsolicited Internet request. Review account statements regularly to ensure all charges are correct. Do not be intimidated by an e-mail or caller who suggests dire consequences if you do not immediately provide or verify financial information. If you fall victim to attack, act immediately to protect yourself. Alert your financial institution(s). Place fraud alerts on your credit files. Report suspicious e-mails or calls to the Federal Trade Commission through the Internet, or by calling 1.877.IDTHEFT.Pioneer West Virginia Federal Credit Union
1320
Kanawha Blvd East
Charleston, WV
25301
Phone: (304)348-6648 or (800)339-4378
Fax: (304)347-7473
Email: contactus@pioneerwv.org
