Protect Yourself from Fraud

What You Need to Know

Fraud is on the rise, and scammers are constantly developing new tactics to steal personal and financial information. At Journey Federal Credit Union (JFCU), your security is our priority. Understanding how fraud works and taking preventive steps can help protect you and your finances.

This guide will help you recognize common scams, take proactive steps to safeguard your accounts, and understand what JFCU will and will not ask from you.

Phishing Scams (Email and Text Fraud)

Fraudsters send fake emails, text messages, or social media messages pretending to be from JFCU or another trusted organization. They often claim there is a problem with your account, asking you to click a link, log in, or provide sensitive information. These messages look real, using official logos and professional language, but responding can lead to identity theft or account takeover.

   How to protect yourself:

  • JFCU will never ask for your password, PIN, or full Social Security number via email or text.

  • Do not click on suspicious links or open attachments from unknown senders.

  • If an email or text seems suspicious, call JFCU directly using the phone number from our official website.

Vishing (Phone Scams) and Caller ID Spoofing

Scammers may call you pretending to be from JFCU, your bank, or even a government agency. They use caller ID spoofing to make it look like the call is coming from a trusted number and may pressure you into providing personal details or approving transactions.

   How to protect yourself:

  • If you receive an unexpected call asking for sensitive information, hang up and call JFCU directly.

  • JFCU will never call and ask for your online banking password or a verification code.

  • If a caller demands immediate action or payment, it is likely a scam.

Fake Fraud Department Calls

Scammers impersonate financial institution fraud departments, claiming there is suspicious activity on your account. They may ask you to verify personal details, approve transactions, or move your money to a "safe" account.

   How to protect yourself:

  • JFCU will never ask you to move money to another account to "protect" it.

  • If you are unsure, hang up and call JFCU directly.

  • Never provide one-time passcodes (OTPs) or security codes to anyone over the phone.

Tech Support Scams

Fraudsters pose as representatives from companies like Microsoft, Apple, or your internet provider, claiming your computer has a virus or security issue. They may ask you to grant them remote access or pay for unnecessary services.

   How to protect yourself:

  • Legitimate tech companies do not contact you unexpectedly about computer issues.

  • Never allow remote access to your device unless you have initiated the request with a trusted source.

  • If you see a pop-up warning about a virus, do not click on it. Close the window and run a trusted security scan.

Tax Scams (IRS Impersonation and Fake Tax Preparers)

During tax season, scammers impersonate IRS agents, claiming you owe taxes and must pay immediately to avoid legal action. Others pose as tax preparers and steal tax refunds.

   How to protect yourself:

  • The IRS does not call, text, or email demanding immediate payment.

  • File taxes early to prevent identity thieves from filing in your name.

  • Only use reputable tax professionals and verify their credentials.

Best Practices to Stay Safe

Although not all fraud can be prevented, there are steps you can take to reduce your chances of falling victim to fraud.

  • Verify before you trust. If something feels off, contact JFCU directly.

  • Monitor your accounts. Set up alerts for suspicious activity.

  • Use strong passwords and enable multi-factor authentication.

  • Stay informed. Scams evolve - stay updated on new fraud tactics.

REMEMBER...JFCU will NEVER ask for:

  • Your password or PIN

  • Your full Social Security number

  • A one-time passcode (OTP)

  • Remote access to your computer or phone

  • Requests to move money to "safe" accounts

If you think you have been targeted by a scam, contact JFCU immediately at 989.227.3700. Learn more about how JFCU is working to protect your privacy here.

Fraud Text Alerts

Our fraud center now sends text alerts when fraud is detected on an account. The text messages will give you the option to opt-in or out of these alerts. Should you opt-in, you will receive text alerts for fraudulent activity instead of phone calls from our fraud center. If you do not reply, you will receive a phone call. If you opt-out, you will not receive these text alerts and will instead be notified with a phone call. 

Lost/Stolen Cards:

To report a lost or stolen card during normal business hours, please call us at 989-227-3700. After regular business hours or on the weekend, please call 888-263-3370. If you are enrolled in online banking or use our mobile app, take advantage of the Card Controls feature to lock your card, set alerts, or to report your card lost/stolen.

Save Your Identity with eStatements

Reduce your chances of being a victim of mail fraud - receive your credit union statement electronically.

Even though identity thieves are finding new ways to steal information over the Internet, the original theft  (i.e. taking out a credit card in your name) tends to be a low-tech crime. According to the Federal Trade Commission, about half the country's victims know how their information was swiped, and in many cases, the breach was paper such as bills, credit card solicitations, and financial statements, pilfered from garbage cans and mailboxes.

Receive your statement electronically and enjoy safety, timeliness, and convenience. Click here to learn more!

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