Staying One Step Ahead of Fraud

Here are some of the most common schemes targeting credit union members right now. 

AI-powered impersonation: Fraudsters now use artificial intelligence to clone voices, create convincing fake websites, and write polished messages that look like they came from a real person or business. A caller who sounds like your grandchild or a website that looks just like your favorite retailer may not be what it seems. Always verify through a number or web address you already know and trust.

Check scams: If someone sends you a check and asks you to deposit it and send part of the money elsewhere, it’s a scam. Banks must make deposited funds available quickly, but that doesn’t mean the check is good. Counterfeit checks can take days or weeks to be discovered, and you are responsible for the money you withdraw.

Pay-it-back payment app scams: You receive money through Venmo, Zelle, Cash App, or a similar service from someone you don’t know. Then they contact you saying it was a mistake and ask you to send it back. The original payment often comes from a stolen account or card, and it can be reversed later, leaving you out the money you returned. If you receive an unexpected payment, don’t send anything back yourself. Instead, contact the app’s customer support directly (for example, Venmo Support through the app) and report it so they can handle the payment properly. If you’ve already sent money back, let us know so we can help you protect your accounts.

Quick tips to protect yourself:

• Never share one-time passcodes, PINs, or passwords with anyone, even someone claiming to be from the credit union.
• Be wary of urgency. Scammers want you to act before you think.
• Don’t send money to people you haven’t met in person.
• When in doubt, hang up and call us directly.

Think you’ve been targeted? Call us right away at 760-839-4606 or visit www.EscondidoFCU.org. The sooner you report it, the more we can help.