FRAUD ALERT:

FINANCIAL INSTITUTION TEXTING SCAM

20 June 2008 3:00 p.m. Eastern
Nicole Thompson

When checking incoming text and e-mail messages, be careful whom you respond to. The same scams that have been conducted by conventional mail now can be found affecting mobile device and Internet users. Recently credit union members have received text messages stating their financial institution is deactivating or restricting their cards or accounts due to unusual activity. The messages ask members to call a number for reactivation.

Remember that your credit union will never contact you by text-message or e-mail stating your card or account will be deactivated or restricted. If you receive such a message claiming to be from your credit union, do not respond using the telephone number provided in the message and never give out your personal account information over the phone. Contact your credit union using a trusted number—to reach PEFCU call 800.627.3328 or 765.427.3328.