Fraud Alert: Scammers Are Pretending to Be Credit Union Employees

A phone call from your credit union might not seem unusual. But scammers are increasingly impersonating banks and credit unions through phone calls, text messages, emails, and even social media messages in an attempt to steal personal information and money.

These fraudsters often create a sense of urgency, hoping you'll react before taking time to verify what's really happening.

At USF Credit Union, we want members to know what to watch for and how to stay protected.

How the Scam Works

The scam usually begins with a message claiming there's suspicious activity on your account. The person may sound professional and even appear to be calling from a legitimate phone number. They might tell you that the credit union or a specific branch is under investigation and they need your help. They might tell you your account has been compromised, your funds are at risk, or that immediate action is needed to prevent fraud.

Their goal is to convince you to share sensitive information or move your money.

Red Flags to Watch For

Here are some of the most common signs that you're dealing with a scammer:

• Instructions to be Dishonest: Someone asks you to intentionally lie to credit union staff about the purpose of your transaction, especially if it involves cash or a wire transfer. 
• Urgent Requests: You're told to act immediately to avoid losing money, having your account closed, or stopping suspicious activity.
• Requests for Personal Information: The caller asks for passwords, PINs, card numbers, online banking credentials, or one-time security codes.
• Instructions to Move Money: You're told to transfer funds, buy gift cards, send a wire, withdraw cash, or deposit money into a Bitcoin ATM.
• Requests for Remote Access: Someone asks you to install software or allow access to your phone or computer.
• Caller ID Looks Legitimate: Scammers can spoof phone numbers and names to appear trustworthy.

How to Protect Yourself

The good news? A few simple habits can go a long way.

• Pause Before You Act: Scammers rely on panic and urgency. Take a moment to think before responding.
• Keep Security Information Private: Never share passwords, PINs, or security codes with anyone.
• Verify Through Trusted Channels: If you're concerned, hang up and contact USF Credit Union using the number on the back of your card or our official website.
• Never Move Money on Someone Else's Instructions: Legitimate financial institutions will not ask you to transfer money to a "safe account," buy gift cards, hand cash to a courier, or deposit money into a Bitcoin ATM.

What If They Claim to Be Law Enforcement?

Some scammers go a step further and pretend to be with the police, FBI, or another government agency. They may claim you're helping with an investigation or that your accounts are connected to criminal activity.

If this happens, end the conversation immediately. Legitimate law enforcement agencies will not recruit you through unsolicited phone calls, text messages, or social media messages to participate in an investigation.

If You Think You've Been Targeted

If you shared account information, security codes, passwords, or sent money after receiving a suspicious message, contact USF Credit Union immediately. The sooner you report it, the sooner steps can be taken to help protect your accounts.

At USF Credit Union, your security matters. If something feels unexpected, urgent, or unusual, trust your instincts, pause, and verify before taking action.