Phone Scams Are on the Rise: Here’s How to Verify a Call from Your Credit Union Have you ever received a phone call from someone claiming to be from your financial institution? With scams becoming more common, it’s important to know how to verify these calls before sharing any personal information. Fraudsters sometimes pretend to represent financial institutions in an attempt to gain access to sensitive details. Staying informed and cautious is one of the best ways to protect yourself.
What is KYC and Why Does It Matter? KYC stands for “Know Your Customer.” It’s a process that financial institutions use to confirm the identity of their members and help prevent fraud and financial crime. While it’s normal for a credit union employee to verify some information when speaking with you, it’s equally important that you feel confident the person calling is legitimate.
How to Verify a Caller If you receive a call from someone claiming to be from Ganaraska Financial Credit Union, keep these tips in mind: Pause Before Sharing Information Never provide your account number, PIN, passwords, or verification codes right away. A legitimate employee will not ask for sensitive details unexpectedly. Ask Questions A genuine staff member should be able to provide their name, department, and the reason for their call. Hang Up and Call Back If you’re unsure, politely end the call and contact us using the official phone number on our website or on the back of your debit card. This ensures you are speaking with a trusted representative.
What to Do If You Suspect a Scam If something doesn’t feel right, take these steps immediately:
- Do not share personal or financial information.
- End the call.
- Contact your credit union directly using an official number.
- Report the suspicious call so we can help protect other members.
Staying Safe in the Digital Age Remember, Ganaraska Financial Credit Union will never ask for your passwords, PINs, or one-time verification codes over the phone. If you ever feel uncertain about a call, it’s always okay to pause and verify first. Protecting our members and their financial well-being is one of our top priorities. If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to our team or visit your local branch. We’re always here to help! |
