Outsmart Scammers: Your Guide to Fraud & Phishing Prevention
Scammers are constantly evolving their tactics, but you can protect your hard-earned money by knowing what to look for. At EFCU Financial, your security is our priority. Explore our fraud prevention tips below to learn how to recognize the warning signs of scams and keep your accounts safe.
What are common scams to watch out for?
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Phone Scams
Fraudsters are increasingly using technology to impersonate trusted financial institutions. With a tactic known as called ID spoofing, scammers can make a phone call appear as if it’s coming from our official number. They may claim there’s an urgent issue with your account or attempt to “verify” personal details.
Warning Signs:
- You’re asked to provide your account number, debit card PIN, or online banking credentials
- The tone is urgent or threatening, pressuring you to act immediately
How to Protect Yourself:
- Contact us directly as (225) 214-6800 to verify any claims.
- Never disclose sensitive information unless you initiated the conversation.
EFCU Financial will never call you to request your PIN, full account number, online banking password, or verification codes.
Email Scams (Phising Attempts)
Phising scams often arrive via text or email and are designed to appear legitimate. These messages may reference “unusual activity” or request that you confirm account details by clicking a link or downloading an attachment. In reality, these are fraudulent attempts to steal your personal information or gain access to your accounts.
Warning Signs:
- Spelling errors or unusual formatting.
- Unexpected links or attachments.
- Messages that create a sense of urgency or fear.
How to Protect Yourself:
- Do not click on links or respond to suspicious messages.
- Access your account only through EFCU Financial’s website or mobile app.
If you’re ever unsure, contact us before taking action. It’s always better to verify than to risk compromising your information.
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What EFCU Financial Will Never Do
We will never ask for the following over the phone, text, or email:
- Your full acount number
- PIN or online banking password
- Debit or credit card number
- Secure access codes
If someone claims to be from EFCU Financial and ask for this info, it's a scam.
Tips to Stay Safe
- Know the red flags: Urgent language, unfamiliar links, or requests for sensitive info.
- Stay updated: Follow us on social media for the latest scam alerts.
- Protect your accounts: Use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication on your accounts.
- Monitor your accounts regularly: Log in to the EFCU Online Banking or EFCU Financial Mobile App to check your account.
Think You’ve Been Targeted?
Call us immediately at (225) 214-6800 or visit your nearest EFCU Financial branch.