Fraud can happen to anyone. Technology advances every day and so do the scams used to target consumers. From unexpected text messages and phone calls to convincing investment opportunities, scammers are finding new ways to build trust and encourage people to act against their own financial interests.
The best defense you can take against scammers is staying informed. At Navigant Credit Union, we’re here to help our members recognize potential red flags and feel confident knowing what to do when something doesn’t seem right. Here are several fraud detection dos and don’ts.
Don’t respond to unexpected communication.
The first component of any scam is establishing communication. Many will begin with a simple text, email or phone call. If something feels unusual or you weren’t expecting it, don’t respond or click on any links. Instead, contact the person or organization directly using a phone number or website you already know and trust. It is always good to verify the message through a trusted independent source, versus relying on what the scammer has sent you. Know too that at Navigant Credit Union, we will never request personal details about your account information so anyone inquiring about your username and password should raise an immediate red flag.
Don’t let urgency pressure you into acting.
Scammers will often create fear or urgency to push you into acting quickly. If someone says there is a problem with your account or that a loved one is in trouble, pause and verify the situation is accurate. Always remember that Navigant Credit Union team members are available to help verify any purportedly urgent financial claims. Bottom line – don’t act without certainty.
Do remember that caller ID isn’t always what it seems.
In today’s technology environment, scammers are leveraging technology and artificial intelligence to scam. Scammers can fake phone numbers, making a call appear to come from a familiar business or even a loved one. If Navigant Credit Union calls you, our team already has your information and will not ask for it. If you receive an unexpected call claiming to be from Navigant, hang up and contact us directly using a trusted phone number to verify the call.
Do stay informed as fraud tactics evolve.
Scammers are constantly finding new ways to target consumers, often using information that is shared online. Details such as your interests, travel plans or family can help scammers create a more personalized, believable scam. Be mindful of what you share online and remember that even when a message or offer feels familiar, it’s important to verify that it’s legitimate before clicking or sharing information.
Navigant Credit Union is committed to keeping our members’ information and finances safe. When in doubt, pause, verify and reach out to us directly. Visit Navigant’s Security Center for more tips on recognizing scams, protecting your information and staying one step ahead of fraud.
