Scammers prey on fears and emotions of individuals during natural disasters and difficult times. Over the last few months, we have seen an uptick in the sale of bogus products like masks, immune system boosters, or test kits. Scammers also know that many
people want to donate and help during this time; it is important to know your charities. Be aware that some scams may look like they are helping specific initiatives you support or providing a service you may use. It is important to verify the product,
company, application, or charity you are receiving communications on through credible research. Here are some additional tips to increase security awareness during this time:
Identifying Fraudulent Calls, Texts, and Emails
Scammers sometimes call or text you telling you they are from a legitimate financial institution or the IRS. These calls and texts will ask you to verify your personal information because they detect fraud on your account, you have tax payment issues,
or that they can help you get a stimulus check. Criminals are able to manipulate caller ID so they appear to be coming from a legitimate organization.
If you get a call claiming to be from Nusenda Credit Union and the caller is seeking card account information, these calls are fraudulent. They are attempts to retrieve member card numbers and online credentials. These calls are not associated with Nusenda Credit Union. Do not provide any personal or account information, instead hang up and call your financial intuition back. Nusenda will NEVER contact members requesting their card information.
Be suspicious of emails claiming to be from the Center of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) or “experts” saying they have critical information about the virus. Remember, never click on an embedded links in an unsolicited email.
Don’t Send Money to Scammers Via Mobile Payment Apps
Mobile payment apps like Venmo, CashApp, or Zelle are a convenient way to send and receive money. However, scammers will try to convince you to use these apps to send them money. If you get an unexpected email or text requesting funds be transferred using
one of these apps and you don’t know the person or company, do not click on the links. If you do send money to a scammer, you should report it right away to the mobile payment app and contact your financial institution.
Watch Your Account Activity
It sounds obvious, and yet it remains one of the most important ways to protect yourself. Check your bank and credit card accounts regularly and make sure there are no unusual transactions.
This rule especially applies if you recently shopped at a store that experienced a data breach. You can access your Nusenda accounts through Mobile and Internet Banking.
If you suspect suspicious transactions, immediately report them to your financial institution.
Check Your Credit Report Every Four Months
Technically, you can only access a free version of your credit report once a year. However, there are three credit-reporting agencies (Experian, Equifax and TransUnion). If you time it right, you can order a free report approximately every four months.
Watch for any unfamiliar accounts and contact the creditor to dispute inaccurate information.
Set Up Alerts
If you bank online or through an app, many companies let you set up alerts, which can help you detect fraud as soon as it happens. Messages via text or email can alert you to significant or unusual account activity. Whether it’s a large withdrawal
or your credit card balance rises above a certain level, you’ll get an immediate notification.
You can establish alerts in Mobile or Internet Banking by logging in, selecting My Profile from the menu, the selecting Alerts from the drop-down.
If you suspect anything unusual or that you are a victim of identity theft, call us immediately at 505-889-7755 (800-347-2838 outside the Albuquerque area).