Scammers know that people are more likely to respond when a message appears to come from a trusted source. That's why impersonation scams remain one of the most common forms of fraud today.
In an impersonation scam, a fraudster may pretend to be someone credible in an attempt to steal money or personal information. The scam may arrive by phone call, text message, email, or even social media. Criminals commonly pose as trusted sources, including but not limited to, financial institutions, government agencies, delivery services, employers, utility companies, or well-known retailers.
A good rule of thumb is to pause before responding to any unexpected request involving money or personal information. Watch for these common warning signs:
- Pressure to act immediately before you've had time to think or verify the request.
- Threats of negative consequences, such as account closure, penalties, or missed opportunities.
- Requests for personal information, passwords, account details, or verification codes.
- Instructions to keep the situation secret or lie to your financial institution about why you need the money.
While the story varies, the fraudsters' goal is often the same: create a sense of urgency and convince someone to take immediate action. A scammer may claim there is suspicious activity on an account, a problem with a loan application, an issue with a vacation rental, an unpaid bill, or a package waiting to be delivered. Some may demand payment, while others seek account details, passwords, or verification codes.
Fraudsters may send text messages, emails, or phone calls claiming to represent CEFCU and requesting sensitive information or urging immediate action. Some even use technology that makes a phone number appear legitimate. If you get a call from someone claiming to be CEFCU and you are unsure if you are speaking with a real CEFCU employee, hang up and call us back using our listed number — 1.800.542.3328.
If a communication claims to be from CEFCU, a government agency, or another trusted source, you may verify the request using official contact information rather than clicking a link or replying to contact information included in the message.
