Important Scam Alert
NIHFCU members, along with those at many other financial institutions nationwide, are being fraudulently contacted by scammers looking to extract card data from you.
These calls may look like they are originating from NIHFCU’s main number (301-718-0208 or 800-877-6440) on your caller ID but they ARE NOT. And the person on the other end of this call will be posing as an NIHFCU representative but IS NOT.
We understand that these scammers, pretending to be from NIHFCU (and possibly any of your other financial institutions), are requesting all or some of the following data:
The last eight digits of the card number
Expiration date
Security code
Account balance
Should you get a call, consider it to be a fraud.
DO NOT RESPOND to any request for any personal information. Do not answer and if you do, hang up immediately. Then, notify us immediately at 800-877-6440 or 301-718-0208.
Please note, the NIHFCU has not been breached but members are being fraudulently contacted as part of a nationwide scheme.
As a reminder: NIHFCU is committed to protecting your privacy. We will never initiate a request for personal information (i.e. account or loan numbers, passwords, social security or tax ID information) via email, text or social post, or by falsely requiring you to call a phone number different than our main lines. If you receive such requests, do not respond, delete them immediately and notify us. We also strongly suggest that you do not share your Member ID, Password, or PIN with anyone ever. IMPORTANT: If you have replied to an email, or text message with your sensitive information, please call us immediately at 800-877-6440 or 301-718-0208.
Other reminders to help safeguard against scammers.
Freeze Your Credit Immediately
One of the most effective ways to prevent identity theft is to freeze your credit. This blocks anyone from opening new accounts in your name using your SSN, a common tactic for fraudsters. You can initiate a credit freeze by visiting the websites of the three major credit reporting agencies—Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. This step is free, doesn’t affect your credit score, and can be temporarily lifted when you need to apply for credit.
Be Wary of Phishing and Smishing Attacks
Be cautious of phishing (email) and smishing (SMS) attacks. Cybercriminals can use your stolen SSN and other data to craft highly convincing messages that trick you into revealing more information or downloading malware.
To protect yourself:
– Do not click on links: Avoid clicking on links in unsolicited emails or text messages.
– Verify the source: Always verify the sender’s identity through a known and trusted communication channel before responding.
– Avoid sharing sensitive information: Never provide your SSN, account details, or passwords in response to unsolicited requests.
Strengthen Your Passwords and Use a Password Manager
Ensure that all your online accounts are protected with strong, unique passwords. Avoid reusing passwords across multiple sites, as this increases the risk of account takeovers if one password is compromised.
A password manager can help you:
– Generate complex passwords: Creates long, unique passwords that are hard for hackers to guess.
– Store passwords securely: Keeps your passwords safe and accessible only to you.
Regularly Monitor Your Financial Accounts
Keep a close eye on your credit union, bank and credit card statements, as well as any other financial accounts, for suspicious activity. Early detection of unauthorized transactions can help you prevent further fraud.
Specifically, you should:
– Review account statements: Regularly check for unfamiliar charges or withdrawals.
– Order your credit reports: Obtain free weekly credit reports from the three major credit bureaus through annualcreditreport.com and review them for any errors or signs of fraud.
– Dispute any inaccuracies: If you find discrepancies, contact the credit bureau immediately to dispute the information and correct your report.
Consider Identity Theft Protection Services
Identity theft protection services can help you monitor your personal information and provide assistance if you become a victim of identity theft. These services often include:
Credit monitoring: Alerts you to changes in your credit report, such as new accounts or credit inquiries. Learn more and register for NIHFCU’s My Credit Rx
Identity restoration: Provides support in recovering from identity theft, including helping you repair your credit and resolve fraudulent accounts. Learn more and switch to NIHFCU’s TotalCare Checking with ID Theft Restoration and Moderation services
Report Suspicious Activity Immediately
If you suspect that your SSN or other personal information has been used fraudulently, take action immediately:
File a report with the FTC: Visit IdentityTheft.gov to report identity theft and create a recovery plan.
Contact your financial institutions: Notify your bank, credit union, and credit card companies to prevent further unauthorized transactions.
Place a fraud alert: Consider placing a fraud alert on your credit reports, which warns creditors to take extra steps to verify your identity before opening new accounts.
Educate Yourself and Your Family
Knowledge is your best defense against fraud. Stay informed about the latest scams and fraud tactics, and share this information with your friends and family. The more aware you are of the potential risks, the better equipped you’ll be to avoid falling victim to them.
Visit NIHFCU’s Fraud & Security Hub with a range of important resource to help you remain safe and vigilant.
