Protect Yourself from Fraud:
What You Need to Know
Fraud can happen to anyone, anytime. With fraudulent activity on the rise, staying informed and proactively safeguarding your personal and financial information is essential. Being aware of common scams and warning signs can help you prevent fraud before it happens.
1. Be Cautious of Calls, Texts, and Emails
Scammers often impersonate trusted organizations or even use phone numbers that appear familiar. Be cautious if you receive an unexpected call or message asking for sensitive information.
Unison Credit Union will NEVER ask for:
- Full debit or credit card numbers
- Usernames or account passwords
- PIN numbers
- Security questions, including any answers
2. Set Up Account Alerts
Enabling activity alerts on your debit or credit card can help you catch fraud the minute it happens and allows you to shut it down before it goes any further. If you see suspicious activity on your account, lock your card down immediately by logging into our online banking (Opens in a new Window) or mobile app (Opens in a new Window).
3. Think Before You Click
Be wary of unexpected attachments or links in emails and text messages. Fraudsters often disguise themselves as familiar companies—like financial institutions, phone providers, or delivery services—to trick you into downloading malware or revealing personal details.
Always verify the sender before clicking links or opening files.
4. Never Send Money To An Unknown Source
If someone asks you to transfer money or send gift cards, pause and evaluate the request. Scammers often pose as legitimate businesses or even impersonate friends on social media. If something feels off, stop communication immediately.
5. Closely Monitor Your Credit Score & Report
Keeping an eye on your credit score and report can help detect fraud early. As a Unison Credit Union member, you have access to SavvyMoney® (Opens in a new Window)—a free tool that lets you check your credit score 24/7 and alerts you to changes that could indicate fraud.
SavvyMoney® Features:
- Real-time Credit Monitoring – Stay informed about changes to your score.
- Credit Report Alerts – Get notified about suspicious activity.
- Personalized Credit Insights – Learn ways to improve your score.
- Loan Impact Simulator – See how new loans or refinancing could affect your credit.
Sign up through online banking (Opens in a new Window) or our mobile app (Opens in a new Window) today!
Additionally, you’re entitled to one free credit report per year at AnnualCreditReport.com - (Opens in a new Window)take advantage of this to ensure your information is accurate.