Messaging fraud is the newest type of scam where members receive a fraudulent message on their phone. "Smishing" uses
cell phone text messages to get you to divulge your personal information. The text message may include a website or a
phone number that connects to an automated response system. The message will give the appearance that immediate
attention is needed. See the most recent smishing scam below.
Fraudulent Text Message Scam Reported On: 2/26/09 Details: Members received a text message stating they had unusual activitry
on their account and SECU needed to verify their information.
If you are a victim of Messaging Fraud, then you should follow the steps below:
1. Do NOT reply to the message in any form
2. Forward the message to notifyus@ncsecu.org so it can be researched
3. Delete the message
Voice Messaging Fraud
"Vishing" is facilitated by Voice Over Internet Phone (VoIP) to gain access to your private personal and
financial information. With this scam you receive an automated recorded message that gives you a phone number to call.
The message will give the appearance that immediate attention is needed.
If you become a victim of Voice Messaging Fraud, then you should follow the steps below:
1. Do NOT respond to the message in any form
2. Inform SECU or the Call Center at (888) 732-8562 or (919) 857-2150
3. Delete the message
Email Fraud
Email fraud, or "phishing", involves emails that appear to be from a legitimate source, but are a criminal attempt
at obtaining personal and/or account information. Phishing emails will often provide a website link that will direct
you to a fake website. It will prompt you to enter your personal information. Don’t be fooled! The site will look
almost identical to the legitimate one. It is important to remember that State Employees' Credit Union never requests
personal information via email, as email is not a secure method of communication. See the phishing scam below as an
example and review the list of archived phishing scams.
Verified by VISA Phishing Scam Reported On: 09/10/07 Details: Links to a fraudulent site where you are instructed to enter in your personal information
in order to use your Verified by VISA account.
If you are a victim of email fraud, then you should follow the steps below:
1. Do NOT click any links in or reply to a suspicous email
2. Do NOT enter any requested information
3. Contact the SECU Call Center immediately at (888) 732-8562 or (919) 857-2150
4. Forward the email to notifyus@ncsecu.org
Malware
Malware, derived from the words "malicious" and "software", is used by criminals
to damage your computer system without your knowledge. Malware includes all types
of unwanted software such as computer viruses, worms, trojan horses, spyware and adware.
This software can create a pathway for criminals to gain personal information. If you are a victim of
Malware, you will need to clean and secure all computers at your location. See an example of a malware scam below.
Fraudulent Sign On Malware Scam Reported On: 10/30/06 Details: Members were being prompted to enter personal information before they could proceed
futher to Member Access.
If you are a victim of Malware, then you should follow the steps below:
1. Scan computer with an Anti-Virus program
2. Scan computer with an Anti-Trojan program
3. Scan computer with an Anti-Spyware/Adware program
4. Run Window Update on your computer
5. Install a Firewall program
6. If applicable secure your wireless network
