In today's ever-changing digital landscape, protecting your account from fraud is more important than ever. At Austin Telco, we believe you can play a pivotal role in safeguarding your financial wellbeing by staying informed, alert and taking action. By staying vigilant, you can avoid fraudsters and scammers who aim to take advantage through deceitful tactics.
Be Aware of Fraud Activity
A great way to protect your account from fraud is to be aware of recent scams. Fraudsters often disguise themselves as credible sources to gain your trust. It is important to recognize that a representative of Austin Telco will never ask you to:
- Transfer money to another financial institution.
- Avoid reviewing your account online while we investigate potential fraud.
- Transfer money to another member account at Austin Telco.
Additionally, we will never contact you via phone, text, or email to request:
- Your login details, such as username, password, or Secure Access Code (SAC Code).
- Your credit or debit card number, PIN number, expiration date, or your CVV (security code on the back of your card).
- Your personal information or account transaction details.
Be cautious and protect your sensitive information by verifying the identity of the requester and the legitimacy of the request. Always reach out directly to the institution or company involved using official contact information to confirm any requests. Remember, staying informed and vigilant is your best defense to prevent identity theft.
Stay Alert to Scam Tactics
Fraudsters often create a sense of urgency to pressure you into making hasty decisions. They may pose as representatives from a fraud department or law enforcement, threatening account, or card closure if you don't comply immediately. Even social media can be a place for fraudsters to target the unknowing, so understanding and avoiding social media scams is essential. Recognizing these tactics is the first step to protecting yourself.
Take Action Against Suspicious Activity
If you are contacted with any suspicious requests, take a moment, and ask yourself:
- Does the request make sense?
- Am I being asked for information the credit union should already have?
- Is there pressure to make a quick, rushed decision?
If anything feels off, disengage and contact us directly or visit your local branch for assistance. By taking these steps, you play a critical role in overcoming fraud and keeping your account secure. Remember, with awareness and action, you can protect yourself and your account from fraudsters.