Types of Scams 

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Stay Safe from Scams 

Your security is important to us. We will never call, email or text you asking for your account number, PIN, verification codes or other sensitive information. If someone contacts you asking for this type of information, they may be a scammer.

How to respond to suspicious activity: 

  1. End the conversation immediately. 
  1. Do not click suspicious links.  
  1. Report scammers posing as Horizon by calling us at 800.852.5316. 

If you get a suspicious communication from someone claiming to be from Horizon, just end the conversation and call us directly instead. 

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Report Fraud

Phishing is when scammers send fake emails or texts to trick you into giving up sensitive information, like your account number, multi-factor authentication codes or Social Security number. 

Common signs 

  • Messages with urgent requests, like “verify your account now” 
  • Poor spelling or grammar 
  • Email addresses that don’t match the company name 
  • Suspicious links or attachments 

How to stay safe 

Don’t click links or download files from unknown sources. Double-check the sender’s address and contact the sender directly using a trusted phone number or website. Horizon will never ask for personal info by email or text.  

Spoofing is when a scammer disguises their phone number, email address or website to make it look like it belongs to trusted source, such as your credit union or a friend. The scammer then uses the “spoofed” number, email address or website to trick you into sharing information or taking action. 

Common signs 

  • Caller ID or emails that appear legit but feel suspicious 
  • Requests for money, passwords or personal info 
  • A sense of urgency or pressure to act quickly 

How to stay safe 

Never rely on caller ID or display names alone. If something feels off, hang up or delete the message. Contact the person or company directly using verified contact info. 

Password breaking is when scammers use software tools to guess weak or reused passwords. If they crack your password, they can steal personal info, take over accounts or make unauthorized purchases. 

Common signs 

  • Unusual account activity 
  • Unexpectedly locked out of your account 
  • Notices about password changes you didn’t make 

How to stay safe 

Use strong, unique passwords and avoid reusing them. Enable two-factor authentication where possible. A password manager can help keep things secure and easy to manage. 

Viruses are harmful types of software that infect your device when you click a malicious link or download an infected attachment. They can slow or lock your system, steal personal data and damage files. 

Common signs 

  • Sluggish performance or frequent crashes 
  • Pop-up ads or new programs you didn’t install 
  • Unusual activity on your accounts 

How to stay safe 

Use antivirus software and keep it updated. Don’t download attachments from unknown senders. Only use trusted websites and be cautious with free software or games.  

Spyware is hidden software that monitors your online activity and captures sensitive information without your knowledge. 

Common signs 

  • Slower device performance 
  • Unexpected pop-ups or settings changes 
  • Unauthorized use of your personal info 

How to stay safe 

Install security software and keep it updated. Avoid downloading apps or files from unknown sources. Only use official app stores and review app permissions carefully. 

Mail fraud involves scammers using letters or packages to trick you into sending money or personal information. Scammers often pose as legitimate companies or causes asking for money.  

Common signs 

  • “You’ve won!” letters asking for fees or bank info 
  • Fake checks or sweepstakes offers 
  • Charity requests that seem rushed or unusual 

How to stay safe 

Be cautious with anything that sounds too good to be true. Never send cash or personal details through the mail unless you’re sure it’s real. Call the organization directly to verify. 

If your card is lost or stolen, it can quickly be used for unauthorized charges. Criminals can also steal your card number for purchases online – without needing your physical card. 

Common signs 

  • Purchases you didn’t make 
  • Card suddenly not working 
  • Alerts about charges in places you haven’t been 

How to stay safe 

Use Horizon card controls to report your card lost or stolen and toggle the card off until it’s found. Set up alerts to keep track of when, where and how your card is being used.  

Fraud can take many forms, including fake job offers, investment scams or messages from someone pretending to be a friend or family member in trouble. Scammers often rely on urgency or emotion to pressure you. 

Common signs 

  • Pressure to send money fast, especially by gift card or wire 
  • Pressure to not tell anyone 
  • Messages that play on fear, urgency or shame 
  • Poor grammar or vague details 

How to stay safe 

Pause and verify before sending money or info. Contact the person or company directly using trusted contact info. If something feels wrong, don’t be afraid to say no or reach out to us for help. . 

How We Protect You

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Cybersecurity

Learn how to protect yourself online with these actionable tips geared towards preventing fraud.   

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Secure Mail

We use an encrypted messaging system when sending emails that may include sensitive information.  

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Card Controls

Control when, where and how your card is used with just a few clicks. 

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