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Fraud Protection

Fraud Alert Service

At Metro Credit Union, we take fraud prevention and account security seriously. If a card transaction is flagged as suspicious, you will immediately receive a text message asking if you made the purchase in question. All you need to do is reply Yes or No; it's that simple. We will never call you and ask for your sensitive information, or have you click a link on a text message.

How to Report Fraud

If you believe you’ve been a victim of fraud or have unrecognized transactions on your Metro Credit Union account, contact us immediately:

  • By Phone: 402.551.3052
  • In Person: Visit one of our branches
  • Online: Use the secure Message Center in the Metro Credit Union app or website

Fraud & Scam Education and Prevention

We believe the more informed you are, the easier you will recognize scams and know how to stop fraudsters in their tracks. Check this page regularly for current scams facing consumers, and insights on how to protect your identity, personal information, your loved ones, and your money.

 

 

How to Spot When You're Being Scammed

Whether you’re active on social media, simply browsing the internet, or you answer a call from an unknown number, there's always a risk of being targeted by a scam. Scammers are becoming increasingly brazen, using tactics that create urgency, confusion, or fear to pressure you into making decisions you wouldn’t normally consider.

For example, they might impersonate someone you trust or use AI to mimic familiar voices, so it's important to recognize the red flags before acting. Fraudsters are everywhere, and anyone can be a target. However, you can protect yourself by staying vigilant and cautious. Here are some common signs of a scam to watch out for:

10 Warning Signs of a Scam

AI-Mimicked Voices

Scammers can now use AI technology to imitate the voices of your loved ones. If something feels off or the request seems strange, verify directly with the person before taking any action.

Pressure to Act Quickly

Scammers often create a sense of urgency, insisting you act now or risk serious consequences. Slow down and verify the facts before making any decisions.

Being Instructed What to Say or to Lie

If someone is telling you exactly what to say to your credit union or another institution, it’s a major red flag. Scammers will often do this to avoid raising suspicions with trained professionals.

Unusual Payment Requests

Be cautious if you’re asked to send money through unconventional methods such as gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency, or “Courier” pickups. These are common tactics because they’re hard to trace.

Requests to Verify Personal Information

Never provide sensitive personal information like your Social Security number, bank account details, or passwords over the phone or email unless you’re certain of the recipient's identity.

Inconsistent Communication

Scammers often have inconsistencies in their story, or you may notice strange email addresses, misspellings, or unusual grammar. Always double-check the source.

Emotional Manipulation

Scammers often try to confuse you by using strong emotions like fear, love, or greed. If something feels like it's pulling too much on your heart strings, pause and think carefully before acting.

Promises That Sound Too Good to Be True

Be wary of unsolicited offers, whether it’s a sweepstake win, investment opportunity, or unexpected inheritance. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Unsolicited Requests for Help

Be cautious if someone contacts you out of the blue, claiming they need your help with a personal emergency or financial trouble. Always verify their story before helping.

Confidentiality Demands

Scammers might ask you to keep the situation secret, insist that a matter is under a gag order, or claim you are helping with a secret police investigation. This is a tactic used to prevent you from seeking advice or verifying their story.

Remember, if something feels off, trust your gut. It's always better to be safe and verify details than to rush into a decision. Fraudsters rely on catching you off guard, so staying informed and wary is your best defense.

Elder Scams

As technology advances, so do the tactics of fraudsters looking to exploit unsuspecting individuals. Elder scams specifically target senior citizens, taking various forms such as phone calls, emails, and in-person encounters. The goal? To gain access to financial information, personal data, or directly steal money from their victims.

In this comprehensive blog, we explore why seniors are often targeted, common scams they face, and practical steps to protect them. From lottery scams to tech support fraud, understanding these schemes empowers families and friends to safeguard their loved ones. We also discuss how to recognize red flags, use strong passwords, monitor finances, and respond if a scam is suspected.

Phishing Scams

Phishing scams are deceptive attempts to obtain sensitive information, such as usernames, passwords, and bank details, by masquerading as a trustworthy entity in electronic communications. These scams are conducted through emails, text messages (smishing), or phone calls (vishing). Often, the messages appear to be from reputable organizations like Metro Credit Union. The fraudulent messages urge recipients to click on malicious links or provide personal or login information. They exploit emotions like fear or urgency, claiming there are issues with the recipient's account, fraudulent purchases, or offering fake rewards.

To avoid falling victim to these scams, it is crucial to verify the legitimacy of communications by contacting Metro directly—never use the number provided in the alert—and never share personal information in response to unsolicited requests. Recently, members have reported receiving messages from "Metro FCU" regarding a charge from a gaming merchandise retailer, instructing them to call a bogus number for more information on the transaction. When members call this number, they reach an automated system that later calls them back, asking for personal information to gain access to their accounts.

Cryptocurrency Scams

Sometimes paired with romance scams, these scammers convince their targets to download an app to invest in bogus crypto accounts. They may even claim to be investing some of their own money into the fund. While the apps may show your wealth growing, these criminals are just stealing your money.

Protect yourself by scrutinizing any investment opportunity. Search for reviews of any apps or services you’re being told to use.

Check Washing Scams

Criminals stealing checks from mailboxes is on the rise. These stolen checks are “washed” with chemicals to erase the name and dollar amount, effectively creating a signed blank check.  The criminals then write their own name in the payee line and may alter the check amount before attempting to cash it.

You can protect yourself from this by not leaving mail in your own mailbox overnight, putting your outgoing mail in blue USPS collection boxes, or setting up BillPay or ACH payment options instead of using checks altogether.

Payday Loan Scams

Criminals offering fake payday loans that require an up-front fee to be paid by the applicant. Once the fee is paid, the victim is left with their money taken, and no loan.

The scammers often request that the fee be paid with a gift card or some other non-traceable form of payment, which is the big red flag to watch out for. It’s also worth your time to investigate any lender before providing any information to them.

Card Skimming Scams

Card skimming is a scam where fraudsters use hidden devices to steal credit or debit card information. These devices are often placed on ATMs, gas pumps, or point-of-sale terminals. The skimmer captures the card's magnetic stripe data, including the card number and expiration date, when a card is inserted or swiped. They use the stolen information to create counterfeit cards or make unauthorized transactions, leading to financial losses for cardholders.

To protect against card skimming, check for suspicious devices on card readers and cover the keypad when entering your PIN. If you notice any suspicious activity or believe your card information has been compromised, contact Metro Credit Union at 402-551-3052.

How to Protect Your Confidential Information

Unfortunately, large scale consumer data breaches are becoming all too common. Recent media reports about a national company that offers background checks and fraud protection being hacked is a good reminder to do the following: 

Monitor Your Accounts

Regularly check your account activity and set up alerts for any unusual transactions.

Use Strong Passwords

Create complex passwords and don’t share passwords between services whenever possible. Avoid using easily guessable information. 

Be Cautious with Links

Avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown or unexpected sources. Disregard unsolicited calls, emails, and texts that ask for personal, account, or credit/debit card information.

Keep Your Software Updated

Ensure your operating system, internet browser, and security software are up to date.

Set Up Alerts

Use our account alerts to receive notifications of any suspicious activity.

Enable Two-Factor Authentication

Add an extra layer of security by enabling two-factor authentication on your accounts.

Go Paperless

Protect your personal information by going paperless. Securely access statements online anytime, anywhere.

Freeze Credit Reporting

If you want an extra layer of protection, consider putting a freeze on your credit reports until you need to use them.

Blog Posts

Take a deeper dive into the most common and persistent scams facing consumers in recent years by reading the selected Metro blog posts below.

  • I've had a great experience that's allowed me to establish credit with my first auto loan. Thank you Metro for giving me this opportunity.
    Jessica A.
  • I joined in 1990 & always receive great service. Technology has evolved for increased convenience & loan rates are great!
    Ann T.
  • I have been with Metro Credit Union since 1996. I wouldn't change to any other bank. Very friendly people and their service is outstanding.
    Tammy F.
  • They make banking easy. The mobile app allows quick access to activity going on in my account, and their tellers are great with ensuring the security of my account.
    Katherine V.
  • I have had multiple loans with Metro Credit Union, and they have stood beside me throughout the six years that I have been banking with them
    Duane T.
  • I have been a member of Metro Credit Union for 40 years. I have gotten car loans and other loans. Some of my children are banking there as well. Friendly and knowledgeable personnel at all locations. Love my credit union!
    Louise G.
  • I've done business with Metro for 7 years. Every branch is friendly and willing to do business to suit my needs. Referred to many friends.
    Brian G.
  • I love banking with Metro! I’ve never had an issue, whenever I have questions I write to them on the mobile app & they always answer quickly :)
    K.W.
  • It’s always a great experience at Metro Credit Union!
    Randy J.
  • Tellers are very friendly and able to answer questions and assist in timely manner. Also they have really good coffee for customers.
    Wendylyn M.
  • I visited the Emmet street location today and was met with nothing short of outstanding service from the folks working there. Special thanks to Justin, went above and beyond today. Kudos to you all!!
    Mohammed H.

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