Spoofing scams are getting more common and trickier to spot. Scammers use fake caller IDs and messages that look like they're from Members Choice Credit Union, making it hard to tell what’s real. To help you out, we’ve rounded up some common situations and easy tips to help you keep your money safe.
But the main thing to remember is, if you get a call, text, or email that seems off—even if it looks legit—don’t take any chances. Just hang up and call us directly at our main number 281-398-9900.
Ways Scammers Will Reach Out
Scammers have a bunch of sneaky ways to try and get your banking info. They might text you about fake charges on your debit card, hoping you'll click on a link or give up personal details. Emails are another trick— they’ll create a fake sense of urgency, claiming that something in your account will be shut off if you don’t act fast.
On the phone, they’ll pressure you with urgent-sounding problems that need immediate attention. They also slide into your DMs on social media or use payment apps to ask for money or personal info.
Here are a few ways to protect yourself from scams:
- Be Skeptical of Unsolicited Requests: If you get any unexpected messages asking for personal info or money, reach out to Members Choice Credit Union immediately. Scammers have become really good at tricking people, so it’s always best to double-check with us if something seems off.
- Update Your Security Settings: Regularly update your passwords and security questions. Use complex passwords and avoid reusing them across different accounts.
- Monitor Your Accounts Regularly: Keep an eye on your bank statements and transaction history for any unauthorized charges or suspicious activity.
- Educate Yourself: Stay informed about common scam tactics and warning signs. Knowing what to look out for can help you avoid falling for scams.
- Report Suspicious Activity:
If you think you’ve been targeted or scammed, report it to Members Choice Credit Union immediately.
Watch Out for These Common Financial Scams
Scammers are getting sneaky, so it's good to know what to look for. Here are some of the most common financial scams to be aware of.
- Account Takeover
At the top of our list is account takeover, which is very common. Scammers try to get your bank account details to take over your account and do whatever they want with it. This happens when a scammer gets access to your account info and uses it to take your money.
- Impersonation Attacks
Scammers try to get your login information by sending you fake emails, texts, or phone calls. They can even make the calls look like they’re from the credit union on your caller ID. Usually, the scammer tricks you into giving out your account information by pretending to work for the bank.
- Social Engineering
This is when scammers play on your emotions to get your account details. They send fake emails, texts, or phone calls with urgent scenarios, like telling you that your account or automatic payments will be terminated if you don’t act immediately.
- Check deposit scam
In this scam, a fraudster gives someone a fake check to deposit. They're then asked to send back some of the money (usually by money order, wire transfer, or gift card) before the check is flagged as fake.
- Wire Fraud
Wire transfer scams are common because it's hard to reverse fraudulent wires. Scammers use various tricks to convince people to send money. They might call or email, pretending to be government agencies like the IRS or even family members, to get your account numbers.
- Investing Scam
Scammers promise big returns by getting you to invest in trendy things like cryptocurrency. They use ads, social media, and free events to lure you in, claiming you’ll make money easily. They might use fake success stories to back up their pitch. Whether it’s crypto, real estate, or other investments, they all use similar tricks to steal your money.
Want more tips like this? See more in our fraud center.
About Members Choice Credit Union
At Members Choice, we strive to exceed your expectations. We believe in people-helping-people by providing sound financial solutions and resources, as well as sharing our passion for supporting the community. As a full-service financial institution based in Houston, Texas, we have proudly served the West Houston, Katy, and Cy-Fair areas for more than 81 years. For more information, visit www.mccu.com.
