The fall and winter season is here—a time for celebrations, shopping, and connecting with loved ones as we prepare for the upcoming holidays. Unfortunately, it’s also a peak time for scammers to try and take advantage. At Point West Credit Union, we want to help you stay safe and secure from phishing scams during this busy time of year.

What is Phishing?

Phishing is a type of online scam where criminals pose as legitimate businesses or trusted contacts to trick you into sharing sensitive information, like passwords, account numbers, or Social Security numbers. These scams often appear in the form of emails, text messages, phone calls, or fake websites that look genuine.

Tips to Stay Safe

• Be cautious with unexpected emails, texts, or calls: If an email, text, or call seems urgent or too good to be true, take a moment before clicking any links, opening attachments, or sharing information. Verify the source directly if you’re unsure.
• Check the sender’s information: Look closely at email addresses, phone numbers, or caller IDs for any small differences from the real company’s contact information. Be wary—scammers can “spoof” phone numbers to make it look like the call is from a trusted source.
• Don’t share personal information over the phone: If you receive a call asking for sensitive information like account numbers or passwords, hang up and call the organization back using a trusted phone number found on their official website.
• Keep your devices updated: Make sure your computer, phone, and apps are up to date with the latest security patches and software updates.

Report Suspicious Activity

If you receive a suspicious message or phone call, or think you might have been targeted by a phishing scam, please let us know right away. You can reach out to us, and we’ll help you take the necessary steps to protect your information.

Let’s stay vigilant together this season—protect yourself, your family, and your finances from cyber threats.