How to Spot and Stop Scams

Scams can be difficult to recognize, but many follow familiar patterns. Learning the warning signs can help you protect your money and personal information.

Learn about common scams, information Selfreliance FCU will never ask you to share, and steps to take if you suspect fraud.

The Most Important Rule

Never share your Digital Banking password or a one-time verification code, even with someone claiming to represent Selfreliance FCU.

Verification codes are meant to protect your account. If someone contacts you and asks for a code, do not share it. End the conversation and contact us directly.

Common Scams to Watch For

Learn how these common scams work, what warning signs to watch for, and how to respond.

Investment Scams

How it worksScammers promote fake investment opportunities, often involving cryptocurrency, through social media, messaging apps, or a “wrong number” text that develops into a friendship. They may show you an app or website with large returns to encourage you to invest more, but the money cannot be withdrawn.

Red flagsGuaranteed or unusually high returns, pressure to invest quickly, investment advice from someone you have only met online, requests to move money from savings or retirement accounts, or fees required before you can withdraw your funds.

RememberNo legitimate investment can guarantee returns. Before investing, take your time and talk with someone you trust. If you are unable to withdraw your money, do not send more.

Calls Pretending to Be Selfreliance FCU

How it worksScammers call pretending to be from Selfreliance FCU, often from our fraud department. Caller ID can be faked, so the call may appear to come from us. They claim there is suspicious activity on your account and ask you to confirm a verification code, share card details, or move money to a “safe” account.

Red flagsRequests for a one-time verification code or Digital Banking password, pressure to act immediately, instructions to move money to another account to protect it, or a caller who tries to keep you on the line.

RememberIf you receive an unexpected call about your account, end the call and contact us directly at 888-222-8571 or the number on the back of your card. Do not share a verification code with anyone who contacts you.

Cryptocurrency Kiosk (Bitcoin ATM) Scams

How it worksScammers impersonate government officials, tech support staff, or company representatives. They pressure you to withdraw cash and deposit it at a cryptocurrency kiosk (Bitcoin ATM), claiming this will resolve an urgent problem or keep your money safe.

Red flagsInstructions to withdraw savings or retirement funds, directions to a specific kiosk, or claims that cryptocurrency is needed to protect your money or resolve a legal issue.

RememberA request to send money through a cryptocurrency kiosk to resolve a problem is a major warning sign. Cryptocurrency transfers can be very difficult or impossible to recover. Do not make the payment.

Fake Emails and Text Messages (Phishing)

How it worksYou receive an email or text message that appears to come from a financial institution, delivery service, or trusted company. It asks you to click a link and confirm personal or account information.

Red flagsUrgent warnings, unexpected links, and requests for passwords, verification codes, or account numbers.

RememberWe will never ask for your Digital Banking password or one-time verification code by email or text. If you are unsure about a message, call us at 888-222-8571.

Government and Business Impostor Scams

How it worksScammers pretend to represent the IRS, Social Security Administration, technical support, or a utility company. They claim you owe money or must address an urgent problem.

Red flagsThreats of arrest or legal action, demands for immediate payment, or requests for remote access to your computer.

RememberDo not respond to threats or demands for immediate payment. Hang up and contact the agency or company using a phone number you have verified independently.

Romance and Online Relationship Scams

How it worksScammers create fake dating or social media profiles, build trust over time, and eventually ask for money for an emergency, travel, or a supposed business opportunity.

Red flagsQuick declarations of love, repeated excuses to avoid meeting, requests for financial help, or stories about emergencies overseas.

RememberBe cautious when someone you know primarily online asks for money. Do not send funds or share financial information under pressure.

Fraudulent Checks and Overpayment Scams

How it worksA scammer sends you a check for more than the agreed amount, perhaps for a sale, job, or prize, then asks you to deposit it and send back the difference. The check later turns out to be fraudulent.

Red flagsUnexpected overpayments, requests to return money by wire transfer or payment app, and pressure to act quickly.

RememberMoney from a deposited check may become available in your account before the check is discovered to be fraudulent. Available funds do not mean the check is valid. You may be responsible for money you withdraw or send based on a fraudulent check. Never send back an unexpected overpayment.

What Selfreliance Will Never Ask You to Share

Selfreliance FCU will never contact you unexpectedly and ask you to share:

  • A one-time verification code sent to your phone or email
  • Your full Social Security number through a text message or email
  • Your Digital Banking password or other sign-in credentials
  • Sensitive account information through an unexpected link or message
If a request seems suspicious, end the conversation and call us directly at 888-222-8571.

Everyday Habits to Protect Your Accounts

These habits can help reduce your risk of fraud and make suspicious activity easier to spot.

Use strong, unique passwords

Create a long, unique password for every important account. A password manager can help you store your passwords securely.

Add an extra layer of security

Turn on multi-factor authentication where available. It requires an additional step to verify your identity when you sign in, helping protect your account even if someone learns your password.

Keep your devices updated

Software updates often include important security fixes. Turn on automatic updates whenever possible.

Set up account alerts

Enable available account alerts in Digital Banking to help you identify unfamiliar transactions promptly.

Be careful on public Wi-Fi

Avoid signing in to financial accounts on public Wi-Fi. Use a trusted private network whenever possible.

Review your statements regularly

Check your statements for unfamiliar charges and report suspicious transactions promptly. Even small charges deserve attention.

Shared Information, Sent Money, or Noticed Something Suspicious?

Acting quickly can help limit potential damage. Here is what to do:

  1. Call Selfreliance FCU

    Call 888-222-8571 as soon as possible so we can help you review and protect your accounts.

  2. Change your Digital Banking password

    Update your password from a device you trust. If you reused that password elsewhere, change it on those accounts too.

  3. Update your email password

    Secure your email account, especially if it is linked to your Digital Banking login or may have been compromised.

  4. Report it

    Report suspected scams to the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.ftc.gov and internet-related crimes to the FBI at ic3.gov.

Share This Guide

Knowing the warning signs can make a difference. Share this guide with family and friends to help them recognize and avoid scams.

Call 888-222-8571 Security Center