Beware of Scammers

Fraud Prevention Starts with You: Secure Your Accounts

Fraudsters and scammers are using more sophisticated ways to try to mislead members into sharing account information, personal data or access to your savings/checking accounts. To help keep you protected from these scams, we would like to remind you that we will never call and request any of the following personal information:

Mother’s Maiden Name
Date of Birth
Social Security Number
Account/Card Number
Username
One-Time Passcodes/Links

Spotting the Signs of a Scam

Scammers are always finding new ways to repurpose old tricks. Despite their evolving methods, they often use familiar tactics, reaching out through fake emails, texts, phone calls, letters, or even in person. No matter the approach, being alert to these warning signs can help protect you:

You’re contacted unexpectedly.
You’re pressured to take immediate action.
You’re asked to pay in an unusual manner.
You’re asked to provide personal or account information.
The offer seems too good to be true.

If you authorize a transfer or send money to a scammer, it may be difficult to recover your funds.

How to Identify a Text Scam

Recognizing the signs of a text scam is essential for protecting yourself from fraud. Here are key indicators that a message may be a scam:

Spelling and Grammar: Watch out for messages with poor spelling or grammar—this is often a clear sign of fraud. Legitimate communications from trusted organizations are typically well-written.
Sender Information: Carefully examine the sender’s details to verify authenticity. However, avoid clicking on any links or calling any numbers included in the message.
Suspicious Links: Be wary of links in text messages, especially if they don’t match the institution’s official website address.
Unsolicited Requests: South Texas Federal Credit Union and other reputable institutions will never ask for sensitive information via text message. Be cautious of any text that requests personal or financial details.

Additional Resources

Visit the Credit Union Fraud Prevention Center website to learn more about the most common types of frauds and scams
Visit the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau website to learn more about how to identify and stay safe from scams
Visit the Consumer.gov website to learn more about identity theft scams

Think you have accidentally revealed sensitive information, or are the victim of a scam?

If you receive a call from someone claiming to be a Representative regarding your Account asking for any of this information, hang up immediately, and call us to 956-618-7500.