It starts with a text or email warning you that something is wrong with one of your accounts.  Maybe it says your streaming account is about to be suspended unless you respond quickly. It might even have a link that will supposedly resolve the issue. The message looks real. But is it?

Your first instinct might be to click the link. Don’t do it. It might be a phishing scam.

According to the Federal Trade Commission, scammers often pose as well-known companies to get you to give up sensitive information via text or email. The phishing email might say:

  • They’ve noticed some suspicious activity or log-in attempts
  • There’s a problem with your account or your payment information
  • You need to confirm some personal or financial information

Don’t take the bait. While real companies might send you emails or text messages, they won’t do things like send a link to update your payment information. Only scammers do that. Even opening a link in an unexpected text or email can expose you to scammers — even if you don’t enter any sensitive information.

Don’t click on any links in unexpected emails or texts. CEFCU will NEVER call or text you and ask for specific account information, such as account numbers, Debit/Credit card numbers, One-Time Passcodes (aka Secure Access Codes), or Online and Mobile Banking credentials. We will also never send out a link to verify transactions or account information. Keep in mind, when a legitimate CEFCU representative calls you, we already have your account information.

Remember to NEVER give out any personal information to phone numbers or people you don't know. If you're not certain whether a call or text from CEFCU is legit, hang up and call us at 1.800.633.7077 to verify the call or text was really from CEFCU.

If you received a suspicious call or text appearing to be from CEFCU and gave any personal information, please contact us immediately at 1.800.633.7077. You can also report suspicious information at abuse@cefcu.com.

To find out more about phishing, visit onguardonline.gov. Visit cefcu.com/security for more information on scams.