Fraud
Like all consumers, you want to avoid being a victim of some "scam." That’s why we have a whole team working hard to uncover the latest frauds and scams before members like you become victims. If at any time you have questions or know of a scam that should be added to this site, please contact our Account Management Department at 503.672.3878.
05.26.09Alert: Vishing scam mentions First Tech
We’ve learned of a vishing scam where an automated caller claims to be from First Tech Credit Union and asks for card information. Similar to phishing that is done via email, individuals use vishing to gain private information, by imitating a legitimate financial institution. The caller does not actually have your information; they’re hoping you’ll provide it during the call. If you receive one of these calls, please contact our Fraud Department at frauddepartment@firsttechcu.com.
05.05.09 Spyware scam
First Tech has recently learned of an email spyware scam. A fraudulent email from “WebHosting” claims the recipient will be billed $4.99 a month for Web hosting and $14.95 annually for domain name registration.
The email has a link to log in. However, avoid the temptation to click on the link. If you do, you’ll end up with spyware installed on your computer. In addition to collecting information about your browsing habits, malicious spyware can install additional, unwanted software, redirect Web browser activities and change computer settings, resulting in slow connection speeds, different home pages, and a loss of Internet functioning. Here’s a sample email:
Learn how to avoid spyware or remove it from your computer at OnGuardOnline.gov/spyware.
02.24.09 SMiShing scam affects local credit unions
First Tech recently learned that three credit unions reported an identical SMiShing scam in which their members and non-members receive text messages. The message looks like it’s from the credit union and states it’s urgent they call 888.767.7682. Please note that scammers have not sent these text messages to First Tech members.
Here’s some language from the 888 number’s voice message:
“Welcome to the general protection department. We will be asking you to provide three pieces of information. You will use your phone key pad for the entire process. Enter your 16 digit number followed by the pound key. Include your credit card number and three additional digits.”
Avoid the temptation to respond to the text message. It might look authentic, but the message is a trick. It’s called SmiShing because scammers send text messages through Short Message Service (SMS) and go fishing for information about you or your financial account that may be used for identity theft.
As a reminder, First Tech won’t ask for confidential account information via email, voicemail or text messages such as:
- Account numbers
- Expiration dates
- PIN numbers and/or passwords
Find out how to protect yourself at onguardonline.gov, a website managed by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
12.24.08 Alert: Fraudulent Emails
First Tech recently learned that Credit Union National Association (CUNA) has been the target of an email phishing scam regarding irregular check card activity. This email indicates your card has been deactivated and asks you call 800.494.3963 and enter your 16-digit card number, expiration date and PIN.
Here’s the message of fraudulent email:
Subject: Your card has been deactivated
For your security, we have disabled your card and PIN.
To activate your card and PIN please call our “Card Activation Line” at 1-800-494-3963. Please do not reply to this email.
Sincerely,
CUNA Card Activation Customer Service
Avoid the temptation to call the phone number. It might look authentic, but the message is a trick. It’s called phishing because scammers go fishing for information about you or your financial account that may be used for identity theft.
If you did respond, please contact our Fraud Department at 503.350.4665 or email them at frauddepartment@firsttechcu.com.
Find out how to protect yourself at onguardonline.gov, a website managed by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
12.19.08 Alert: Fraudulent Text Messages and Phone Calls
First Tech recently learned that CUISPA (Credit Union Information Security Professionals Association) issued an alert for a phone and text message phishing attack.
The text message is coming from number 5000 and doesn’t provide a return number. The voice message caller IDs are coming from Florida, Ohio, Texas, or Maryland. Here’s a sample message:
"This is an automated message from First Tech Credit Union. Your ATM card has been suspended. To reactivate call 1-410-910-0787." The automated message then requests you press option 1, which prompts a request for your account number, PIN and authorization code.
Avoid the temptation to respond to the text or phone message. It might look authentic, but the message is a trick. It’s called phishing because scammers go fishing for information about you or your financial account that may be used for identity theft.
If you did respond, please contact our Fraud Department at 503.350.4665 or email them at frauddepartment@firsttechcu.com.
As a reminder, First Tech won’t ask for confidential account information via text message, voicemail or email, such as:
- Account numbers
- Expiration dates
- PIN numbers and/or passwords
09.08.08 Alert: Fraudulent Emails and Vishing Phone Calls
First Tech recently learned of fraudulent emails and telephone calls claiming to be from the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA). These communications ask recipients to either visit a website or place a phone call to verify their account information.
NCUA does not ask credit unions members for personal information. Do not respond to the email link or phone message. If you did, please contact our Fraud Department at 503.350.4665 or email them at frauddepartment@firsttechcu.com.
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