Telephone Scam

Date: December 23rd, 2008 - Author: University Credit Union

There are reports of a telephone scam involving fraudsters attempting to obtain personal information from ATM/Visa Check cardholders. Cardholders are receiving computer-generated calls claiming to be from their financial institution. The calls claim their accounts have been frozen and then direct the cardholder to call a toll-free number to leave their debit card information in order to reactivate any cards. The toll-free number includes a recorded message that asks the customer to key their account number, card expiration date, and PIN.

Should members receive any questionable calls, please do not provide your personal information.

In addition, you can also do the following to protect yourself:

• Make sure you initiate contact with your financial institution and the institution verifies your identitity with questions only you would know.
• To verify whether a call is legitimate, call your bank or visit its website, using phone numbers or internet addresses from your bank statement or account documentation. Do not call back a number provided over the phone or click on a link in an email.
• If you have been a victim of a scam, file a complaint at local law enforcement
• Notify your financial institution.

If you have further questions, please contact UCU at 800-696-8628.

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