X

Protect Yourself From Phishing Scams

PHISHING SCAMS

 

Scammers use email or text messages to try to steal your passwords, account numbers, or Social Security numbers. With that information, they could get access to

your email, bank, or other accounts. They could also sell your information to other scammers. Scammers launch thousands of phishing attacks like these every

day — and they’re often successful.  Phishing emails and text messages often tell a story to try to trick you into clicking on a link or opening an attachment. You might

get an unexpected email or text message that looks like it’s from a company you know or trust, like your utility company, cable company, or credit union. It might also say

it’s from an online payment website or app.

 

EXAMPLES

 

The message could be from a scammer, who might:

  • say they’ve noticed some suspicious activity or log-in attempts — they haven’t
  • claim there’s a problem with your account or your payment information — there isn’t
  • say you need to confirm some personal or financial information — you don’t
  • include an invoice you don’t recognize — it’s fake
  • want you to click on a link to make a payment — but the link has malware
  • say you’re eligible to register for a government refund — it’s a scam
  • offer a coupon for free stuff — it’s not real

 

SIGNS TO WATCH FOR THAT IT MIGHT BE A SCAM

 

Here are signs that this email is a scam, even though it looks like it comes from a company you know — and even uses the company’s logo in the header:

  • The email has a generic greeting.
  • The email says your account is on hold because of a billing problem.
  • The email invites you to click on a link to update your payment details.

 

While real companies might communicate with you by email, legitimate companies won’t email or text with a link to update your payment information.

If you think a scammer has your information, like your Social Security, credit card, or bank account number, go to IdentityTheft.gov.

There you’ll see the specific steps to take based on the information that you lost. Please also contact PECU as soon as possible.

 

If you have questions, please contact a PECU Financial Services Representative by calling 800-772-1955 or e-mailing member@pecutx.org.

x