Scam Alert: Imposter Calls

Fraudsters are currently targeting Horizon members, attempting to gain access to credit and debit cards. Read on to learn about the latest scam alert and how you can protect your information.

Watch Out for the New Imposter Scam

Several members have reported a new scam in which imposters pose as Horizon Credit Union to obtain credit or debit card information.

The scam goes something like this:

• You receive a call from a number spoofed to look like Horizon Credit Union.
• The fraudster informs you that your account or card has been compromised or flagged for fraudulent transactions.
• Next, they tell you that they must verify that they have all information they have is current. They then ask for:
  • Full card number
  • CVV (code on the back of the card)
  • Expiration date
  • Online or mobile banking credentials
  • Other identifying information

The scammers then have all they information they need. Using this information they load the card into a mobile wallet on their own device and, within minutes, can empty an account or max out a credit card limit.

Signs This is a Scam

Requesting confidential information. Horizon Credit Union will never ask you to provide your full card number, online banking credentials or other information we already have on file associated with your account.

What To Do if You Get a Suspicious Call

Hang up and call us. If you are unsure if the call is legitimate, just hang up and give us a call at our main number: 800.852.5316.

Stay informed. Tactics and narratives frequently change, so staying on top of current events is essential. Visit the Better Business Bureau’s Scam Tracker to stay up to date.

How You Can Protect Your Accounts

• Set alerts on your card. Use card controls to set alerts for suspicious activity. You can learn more at hzcu.org/guardyourcard.
• Set alerts on your accounts. Sign up for and actively use mobile or online banking.  You can set alerts for activity to ensure you’re immediately aware of any new transactions.
• Don’t share online or mobile banking credentials. Legitimate financial institutions will not ask you to share this information.
• Update and strengthen passwords. It’s a good idea to update passwords often and use strong, hard to guess passwords.
• Don’t share personal information on social media. Many seemingly innocent interactions are actually intended to gather information that could be used to compromise your accounts such as:
  • your first concert
  • your first car
  • the last purchase you made
  • your favorite food

At Horizon Credit Union, we’re always here to help!  If you suspect any suspicious activity please give us a call and we’ll work with you to identify whether or not it’s a scam and, if necessary, resolve any fraudulent activity on your Horizon accounts.

For more tips to protect your accounts and personal information please visit hzcu.org/staysecure. For tips on spotting scams visit the FTC Consumer Advice site here.