Avoiding Scams

Fraudsters use many avenues to obtain your personal information or to gain your trust so they can gain access to your funds. This can done via the Internet, through phone texts or phone calls, and through the mail. Below are some examples:

Phishing
“Phishing” is when a fraudster attempts to acquire your personal information such as usernames, passwords and credit/debit card details by posing as a trustworthy entity. This is usually done via emails or instant messaging. You are asked to click on a link which redirects you to a fraudulent site. Once on the site, you are then asked to enter in your personal information.

Smishing
“Smishing” is similar to “phishing,” but the fraudster uses text messages instead. The message will ask you to call a specific number to verify your personal/account information.

Fake check scams
This scam involves someone sending you a legitimate looking check or money order and asking you to wire the funds or send a new money order to somewhere in return. Once you have deposited the check and already sent the money, it is returned as a fraudulent check. You are then responsible for paying the institution back. Remember, no legitimate company or person will give you a check and ask for money in return.

Other common scams:

1. You receive an unexpected notice that you are awarded a grant from the government and you are required to pay a processing fee.
2. You answer an ad to work from home and be a secret shopper. Your “employer” sends you a check and asks you to deposit the check into your account, and then go to a local store to purchase some items and rate the store. You are then requested to send the rest of the deposit back to them. Usually by wiring the funds via Western Union or Money Gram.
3. You are selling something and the purchaser sends you more than the asking price and then asks you to send the extra funds back.
4. You meet someone online. These people gain your trust and make you feel sorry for them. Then, they ask you to cash a check for them or send them money.
5. You receive notification that a long, lost relative has passed away and left you an inheritance. All you need to do is pay legal fees.

These are just a few examples of the multitude of scams that exist today. Fraud schemes continue to evolve, so be cautious about any form of solicitation for your personal information from any source and remember: Alliant will never initiate a contact to solicit you for personal information.

When you call any financial institution or company back to verify personal information, call a phone number that comes from a reputable source, such as your statement, the company’s website, the company newsletter, your phonebook or the back of your credit or debit card.

Contact us immediately if you think unauthorized access or fraud has occurred in connection with your Alliant Credit Union accounts. Report such incidents to your closest Alliant Credit Union Service Center Service Center or call 800-328-1935 (24/7).