Don't click! Can you spot an email or text scam? 

Scammers use email or text messages to trick you into getting your personal information such as passwords, account numbers, or Social Security numbers. These are called phishing scams. Scammers want your data to attempt to access your email, bank, or other accounts. 

Scammers launch thousands of phishing attacks every day — and they’re often successful. The FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center reported that people lost $57 million to phishing schemes in one year.

Phishing emails and text messages may look like they’re from a company you know or trust. They may look like they’re from a bank, credit union, a credit card company, a social networking site, an online payment website or app, or an online store.  

Phishing emails and text messages often tell a story to trick you into clicking on a link or opening an attachment. Examples may look like these....

  • say they’ve noticed some suspicious activity or log-in attempts

  • ask you to login in or reset your password

  • claim there’s a problem with your account or your payment information

  • say you must confirm some personal information

  • want you to click on a link to make a payment

  • say you’re eligible to register for a government refund

  • offer a coupon for free stuff

What To Do if You Suspect a Phishing Attack:
If you get an email or a text message that asks you to click on a link or open an attachment, answer this question: Do I have an account with the company or know the person that contacted me?

If the answer is “No,” it could be a phishing scam. The best approach is to ignore and delete the message.

If the answer is “Yes,” contact the company using a phone number or website you know is accurate, not the information in the email. Attachments and links can install harmful malware.

Derived from www.consumer.ftc.gov

Shelley Carlson1st University Credit Union