Popular Online Banking Scams
NEW SCAM ALERT:
Be aware of fraudsters contacting you indicating that your financial institution is being investigated and that if you do not help them or if you contact anyone, you could possibly be charged with a crime. Fraudsters will try to create fear and urgency to get you to do what they want, don’t fall for this. Learn more by watching the video below:
Recent Scams
We have seen an increase in fraudulent activity this year. The emails, text messages, and phone calls appear to be coming from popular online shopping sites, including Amazon, Wayfair, and Victoria's Secret. We have also seen an increase in gift card scams as of late. Do not engage with these phone calls, emails, or text messages. Never give out your home banking login, social security number, account number, or debit or credit card information, in these situations. Contact the merchant directly using the information you have on file, not the information provided in the email, text, or phone call.
Requesting Access
The scammer will request access to your online banking account to deposit money. However, once you have granted the scammer access, they transfer money from another one of your accounts instead of depositing funds. The scammer will then claim they "deposited" too much money in your account and you need to send the money back.
Computer Virus
The scammer will contact you claiming your computer has a virus affecting your online banking account. In order to fix it, they need to gain remote access to your computer. However, once you grant the scammer remote access to your computer and online banking account, they are able to steal your personal information and funds. Scams like this often pose as well-known companies such as Microsoft. Another popular scam is someone posing as Amazon telling you that your account is locked out or has been hacked and you must take action.
Protect yourself from these online banking scams trying to access your account with these tips:
- Avoid using the same password for multiple sites.
- Change your password regularly.
- Use security questions that scammers can't easily find the answer to online.
- Don't provide personal information to someone you don't know or trust.
- Be cautious of the caller ID. Scammers can manipulate the caller ID through spoofing.
- Say no to scammers asking for remote access to your computer.
- Never log in to your online banking with someone else accessing your computer.
- It's always better to play it safe, which means if something doesn't feel right, hang up the phone or end the communication.
It's best not to engage if you are skeptical for any reason.
Contact us right away if you feel your information has been compromised!
Main Office: 207-623-3857 Winslow Branch: 207-872-2636
Further Tips for protecting yourself:
- Never share your bank account information with anyone and use caution when making transactions with cashier’s checks.
- Do not accept a check for more than the amount you requested.
- Require a cashier’s check be drawn from a local credit union or bank and use extreme caution when dealing with foreign buyers and sellers.
- Inspect any check you receive, looking for signs that it’s a fake (misspelled words, poor quality paper, missing watermarks, fuzzy logo).
- Verify funds by speaking with a credit union manager when you deposit the suspect check (explain the situation and express your concerns).
- Remember, no one gives away money for free.
- Report a scam to help protect yourself and others.
- If you receive a suspicious phone call, simply hand up the phone.
- If you receive a suspicious e-mail, delete it. Never click on a link within the email if you are not certain where it came from.
- Never allow someone who contacts you to access your computer remotely. This is a favorite of scammers who will try to gain access to your computer by telling you it needs an upgrade or your anti-virus protection has expired. Be VERY CAREFUL, fraudsters are clever!
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WHEN IN DOUBT, DON'T GIVE ANY INFORMATION OUT!
Helpful Tips for Unemployment Fraud
Beware of COVID-19 Stimulus Scams
- Government agencies will never contact you via social media.
- You will never be asked to pay a fee to receive a stimulus check.
- You will not be required to verify information online or by calling a number.
- Connected Credit Union will never ask for your private information by email, text, or telephone.
- Delete any emails that look suspicious and hang up if you receive any phone calls regarding a stimulus check.
Keeping Your Personal Information Private
- PIN
- Account Number
- Social Security Number
- Debit Card Number
- Credit Card Number
- Username & Password
Protecting Your Identity
Stealing personal or financial information is more common today than ever before. It's important to take measures to protect your personal information and you can begin by monitoring your credit. It's easy and it's free. You're entitled to one free credit report once a year from each of the three credit reporting agencies. Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. Take advantage of this free offer today!
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