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Staying Ahead of Scams This Year

  • Security
  • March 2024
  • Premier America

Identify scams before you become a victim 

At Premier America Credit Union, we want to help you stay safe from scams, especially the tricky ones where scammers pretend to be someone you trust, like a family member or trusted financial partner. These imposters might contact you in different ways, like through a phone call or an email, trying to get your money or personal information. It's important to know how to spot these scams so you don't fall victim to them as well as know what to do if it happens to you or a loved one. 

Beware of these red flags 

Here are some red flags to watch out for and avoid falling victim to scams: 

  • Solicitations for verification: Requests to confirm your identity using sensitive details like your PIN or credit card number, providing scammers with an entryway into your accounts. 

  • Confirmation codes: Tricks involving a code sent to your phone, supposedly by a customer service agent. This code, however, is generated by the scammer's attempt to reset your password, granting them access to your account. Note: Premier America will not initiate a call and then send you a code to recite back.  

  • Payment detail updates: Directives to update or submit payment information for routine transactions or employment opportunities, which instead divert funds to the scammer. 

  • Phishing schemes: Links or attachments that, once clicked or downloaded, infect your device with malware or redirect you to fraudulent sites to steal your credentials. 

  • Advance payments: Demands for upfront fees to unlock non-existent rewards, goods, or services, resulting in the loss of your money. 

  • PayPal invoice scam: Payment requests through PayPal, but for a product/service you never ordered or messages containing an alarmist note. Such notes may ask you to call their fake customer service number in the hope they can obtain your personal/financial details over the phone. 

  • Self-payment via Zelle®: Messages about fraudulent transactions urging you to "recover" funds by transferring money back into your account, unknowingly sending it to the scammer instead. 

Action plan 

If you feel like you've fallen victim to a scam, it's crucial for you to take immediate action and minimize any potential damage. Here are the steps you should follow:  

  • Contact Premier America as soon as possible using official forms of communication. You can find our contact information here

  • Refrain from sharing your member number, account number, PIN, and online login credentials. Remember, Premier America and other legitimate entities will never solicit this information via text, email, or phone. 

  • Exercise caution with links and attachments. When in doubt, access the official site or App directly. And always resist requests for payment via gift cards, wire transfers, or any unconventional method. 
     

By staying informed and vigilant, you can protect yourself from falling victim to scams and fraudulent activities. Remember, if something feels off or too good to be true, it's essential to trust your instincts and verify the legitimacy of the request before taking any action.