DO’s and DON’Ts of Account Security

One of the latest scams involves a telephone. It goes something like this:

Someone calls you and says they are from your financial institution. They have noticed some unusual card activity and want to verify it with you. The caller asks you for your account username and then asks you to tell them a code that was just texted to you.

What’s really happening? The caller is attempting to reset your password and gain access to your online banking. They want you to tell them the security text code to authorize the password reset and access to your online banking. They may have disguised their phone number to display as if they are a trusted source, which adds to the legitimacy of the call.

Remember, UW Credit Union will never call you to ask for a security text code.

Stay vigilant and skeptical whenever and however you are approached, whether by email, a phone call, a text or online. Scammers are becoming cleverer and more convincing than ever.

You can also help protect your information by keeping a few simple do’s and don’ts in mind.

DO:

• Set up alerts in Web Branch to monitor account activity.
• Use strong usernames and passwords and change them frequently.
• Keep your personal information private.
• Be wary of unexpected calls.

DON’T:

• Share your financial information with anyone, including PINs, security codes and card details and online banking information.
• Send money to people or companies you don’t know.
• Give in to pressure to act immediately. Take time to verify who you are talking to.
• Click on links in text messages and emails from people you don’t know.