CARD SAFETY & SECURITY

Here are some well-known scams that can quickly jeopardize your account security. It’s important to realize that scammers don’t necessarily need to know you personally to obtain information from you in mere seconds. Take a look at the following examples of common scams.
 

Gift Card Scam

Please exercise caution regarding individuals who reach out to you or approach you, requesting a particular gift card and pressuring you to act swiftly. Fraudsters may claim that they can only accept payment through a specific type of gift card. They will instruct you to provide them with the card numbers on the reverse side. After receiving the numbers, they will block you and abscond with your funds. 

As a safety measure: Please reach out to DOCFCU without delay so we can provide assistance before divulging any gift card details. DOCFCU is dedicated to supporting its members, so please don’t hesitate to call and notify us of any potential fraudulent activity.

Online Sales Scam

Please exercise caution when purchasing merchandise or event tickets from specific websites. Scammers utilize fake websites to deceive users into disclosing personal and financial information, as well as to potentially compromise your computer’s security. These scammers have developed considerable skill in crafting replica websites resembling legitimate ones.

As a safety measure: Conduct thorough online research and compare different websites before making a purchase. Look for reviews of the company or seller to ensure credibility. Consider freezing your credit, reaching out to DOCFCU, and updating any passwords stored on your computer for added security. 

Money Mule Scam

Scammers have grown increasingly perilous. Not only do they target your computer or payment cards for scams, but they also deceive you into overpaying for items. Additionally, they may send checks, instructing you to cash them and send back the funds. Later on, these checks bounce, leaving your account in the negative while the scammer flees with the money.

As a precaution: Never accept money from a person you do not know. When in doubt check it out! 

If a scammer asks you for any of this information below:

  • Your account number(s)
  • Username/Password
  • Social Security Number (SSN)
  • Pin Number(s)
  • Date of Birth (D.O.B)
  • Address
  • Click on Links

Say No to all of it …. Ask yourself why … Why should I give my personal information out?…. Is this safe?

The next thing to do is log offline and contact your financial institution if you feel that you may have been a victim of fraud. 

Money Flipping Scam

You might encounter a scammer offering, “Send me $100, and I’ll send you $1,000,” but in most cases, you won’t receive the promised $1,000. The scammer’s intention is to deceive you, not to assist you. Their aim is to defraud you.

As a precautionary measure: If you find yourself thinking, “This seems too good to be true,” trust your instincts and consider it likely a scam. Additionally, question why someone would offer you $1,000 for only $100.

To report any card related issues, Call our Member Service Department at 202-808-3600 (Press Option 3 for Cards Services and then Option 3 again for Fraud Activity)