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FAQ: How Can I Protect Myself from Scams?

11/01/2023

By: HCCU

FAQ: How Can I Protect Myself from Scams?

Scammers are getting increasingly sophisticated - crafting emails, texts, and other communications that look like they’re from brands and businesses you know and trust. So, how can you steer clear of these scams? We’ve got a few tips to help!

1. Never provide your personal information. Legitimate businesses will not request your personal information by email, text, or phone call. If you have any concerns about requests you receive for information, you should look up the organization’s contact information directly and reach out to them.

2. Only send money to people and organizations you know and trust on Zelle®. Remember that HCCU, and other reputable organizations, will never request that you transfer money via Zelle® or other person to person payment platforms.

3. Do not share any username or password information with a third party.

4. Change your passwords regularly and do not use the same password on multiple accounts.

5. Use an established antivirus/security software on all of your devices to proactively protect yourself from malware.

6. Be aware of information that you share on social media and other public platforms. Many online quizzes will ask questions about your first job, car, or where you grew up. This information can be used to answer common security questions to access your accounts.

If you have additional questions about scams and fraud or would like to report a potential scam, please email us at [email protected] or give us a call at (916) 364-1700. You can also find more information and tips on scam prevention on the Federal Trade Commission's website.

If you suspect you are a victim of fraud or a scam and it's outside of our business hours, please dial 844-390-5327 to close and report your debit card. For credit, call 800-328-3007