Fraud and identity theft are on the rise, but you don’t have to face them alone. At CFCU, we provide tools, resources and guidance to help you recognize scams, protect your personal information, and respond quickly if something doesn’t look right. Staying alert is your best defense – and we’re here to help every step of the way.
Identifying Scams and Fraud
How can I tell if an email, call or text is a scam?
Be cautious of calls or messages that create urgency, ask for personal information, or contain links to unknown websites. When in doubt about a call you receive, hang up, and call 405-879-5600. If you receive a suspicious text message or email, take a screenshot of the message and send it to cfcu@comfedcu.org or forward the email to cfcu@comfedcu.org.
What should I do if I think my account has been compromised?
Contact CFCU immediately, lock your card in online app, change your online banking credentials, and review your recent transactions. We’ll guide you through the next steps.
Will CFCU ever ask for my PIN, password, or one-time passcode?
No. We will never ask you for sensitive information by phone, text or email. This includes any PIN, password, or one-time passcode. If someone does ask, it’s a scam.
How can I help protect myself from identity theft?
Monitor your accounts regularly, set up account alerts, use strong unique passwords, monitor credit history, and shred sensitive documents before you discard them. Credit alerts and freezes can also be added to your credit bureau for an extra layer of protection. Contact each credit bureau directly to add a freeze or alert.
Equifax.com
Experian.com
Transunion.com
Identitytheft.org
What should I do if I lost my debit card?
Lock your card immediately in the mobile app and call us right away to report it lost or stolen.
How do I report suspicious activity?
Call 405-879-5600, visit your nearest branch, or email cfcu@comfedcu.org after hours.
What are some red flags I should watch out for?
Urgency or pressure – the scammer says you must act immediately or face serious consequences.
Requests for money – especially through gift cards, wire transfers or cryptocurrency.
Asking for personal information – such as your social security number, PIN, online banking credentials, or one-time passcodes.
Too good to be true offers – promises of prizes, easy money or guaranteed funds.
Unusual or suspicious contact – calls, texts, emails from unknown numbers, spoofed caller-id’s or misspelled email addresses.
Where can I go to learn more about scams and fraud?
IC3 – Internet Crime Complaint Center
Home Page – Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3)
AARP – Watchdog Alert Handbook
www.FBI.gov https://www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/scams-and-safety
identitytheft.org
Common Scams to Watch Out For
Phishing Emails and Texts
Fraudsters pose as trusted companies asking you to “verify” or “confirm” your account. Phishing emails and texts look like they’re from trusted companies, but they’re fake. They often include urgent requests or links to steal your information. Never click unexpected links or share personal details. Contact us directly if you’re unsure.
Tech Support Scams
Scammers may call or pop up on your computer pretending to be tech support. They’ll claim your device is infected and ask for remote access or payment. Legitimate companies will never contact you this way. Hang up and don’t give them control of your computer.
Check and Deposit Fraud
Fraudsters may send you a fake check and ask you to deposit it, then quickly send money back to them. The check will bounce, and you’ll be left owing the money. Never deposit or cash checks from people you don’t know or trust.
Online Shopping and Social Media Scams
Fake websites or social media ads promise great deals but never deliver the product. Always buy from trusted retailers and watch for red flags like no contact information, misspellings, or requests for unusual payment methods.
Imposter Scams
Scammers pretend to be from the IRS, police, or even a credit union or bank to scare you into sending money. They may threaten arrest, fines, or account closure. Remember: CFCU and other real agencies, credit unions and banks will never demand immediate payment over the phone.
Romance Scams
Scammers create fake online relationships to build trust, then pressure victims into sending or accepting large sums of money for emergencies, travel or medical expenses.
Top Quick Tips
Use Strong, Unique Passwords
Don’t reuse the same password for multiple accounts.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Adds an extra layer of protection to your logins.
Don’t Click Suspicious Links
Hover your cursor over the link to verify the website address before clicking.
Shred Sensitive Documents
Old bills, statements and credit card offers can be gold for identity thieves.
Shop Secure Sites
Look for https:// and a padlock symbol in the browser bar
Set Up Account Alerts
Get real-time notification of purchases and withdrawals.
Keep Your Information Private
Never share your PIN, online banking credentials or one-time passcodes.
Verify Before You Trust
If you get a suspicious call, text or email, regarding your accounts, contact us directly before you take any action.
Trust Your Instincts
If something feels off, it probably is.