Consumer Security Information
Article of the month Helpful Websites
The best tool against fraud is knowledge!
We have dedicated this page as an educational page about fraud, identity theft prevention, and security tips to help our members. We also have a variety of brochures available at the credit union office on these subjects.
Article of the month:
Mobile Payment Apps: How to Avoid a Scam
Have you ever used payment apps like Venmo, CashApp, PayPal, or Zelle? They are very convenient for sending money to family and friends. Payment Apps are also the target of scammers.
Once you link your debit card, credit card, or bank account to the payment app, it is easy to send money to people. According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the scammers like targeting the payment apps because they can get their money quickly. They also know sending money through a payment app is like sending cash which makes it very hard to get it back once it is sent.
Scammers may send a text or email pretending to be a loved one that is in trouble and needs money. They might say you won a prize but need to pay some fees to collect it. In some cases, scammers have told consumers that their account has been compromised and need to withdrawal all of their funds to another account to "protect" it. Be careful especially when buying things on online marketplaces or auction sites. Always know who you are sending the money to. If you are not sure, contact the person, bank, or business at a phone number you have, not one provided the person requesting money. Just be careful when using payment apps because once you send the funds they are gone and hard to get back.
Helpful Consumer Websites
- www.annualcreditreport.com - The only official government website where consumers can get their credit reports free on an annual basis.
- www.ftc.gov - Provides consumer advice on a variety of topics including identity theft, online security, the do not call list, and much more. Also, accepts complaints on unfair business practices.
- www.stopthinkconnect.org - Provides advice about online security.
- www.onguardonline.gov - OnGuardOnline.gov is the federal government’s website to help you be safe, secure and responsible online.