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With today’s technological advances, thieves
have more opportunities than ever to defraud the average individual.
The latest trick being used is called “phishing.”
Phishing attacks occur when scam artists hijack the identity of
well known and trusted organizations by creating fraudulent web
sites and misleading emails. The intent of these “Phishers”
is to create an environment where you feel it necessary to divulge
your personal data, including but not limited to, your social security
number, credit card numbers, personal identi€cation numbers (PIN)
and other vital information.
There are several ways to keep you from being
the victim of such an attack.
 NEVER
provide your personal information via email or by an unsolicited
phone call.- Check your accounts regularly. Review checking accounts and
credit card statements immediately for accuracy; and, if anything
suspicious appears, contact the reporting agency immediately.
- Be suspicious of emails that claim it will result in account
closure or credit being frozen if personal information is not
provided.
- NEVER make payments or provide personal information over the
internet unless you are using a secure web site. To make sure
you are on a secure site, the beginning of the address should
read https:// as opposed to http://
- Maintain your computer’s virus protection program. Providers
of such services will often provide updates that will protect
against fraudulent emails.
 If
you receive such an email that purports to be from the Credit Union,
immediately contact us. Do not open the site or provide any information,
as it is unlikely that this is a legitimate request. Any reputable
business would never ask for your personal information in such a
manner.
For more on “phishing,” the Federal
Trade Commission provides many valuable tips and information.
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