Clearview Federal Credit Union

The “hook”
Here is how the scam works: The phishing e-mail informs recipients that their bank/credit union accounts are at risk unless they provide updated personal information. The fraudulent message then directs recipients to click on a link embedded in the e-mail. When victims connect to the linked site – which looks legitimate – they transmit sensitive information without the knowledge that they are connected to a phony site set up to steal their identities.

How to avoid being“phished”
With identity theft on the rise and identity thieves becoming increasingly devious at tricking consumers out of their sensitive financial information, there are still ways to avoid being hooked. Do not click on links within e-mails and do not reply to messages requiring you to share personal information. Instead, open a new browser window and type in a Web address you know to be genuine to reach the company. Better yet, take the time to research the phone number and call the company directly to let them know about the scam. Keep in mind that many Web browsers will display a closed padlock symbol at the bottom to verify that you are using a secured site. You can always rest assured that Clearview Federal Credit Union will not initiate a request via e-mail for sensitive information, including your Social Security number, your security ID, your password, PIN or account number. When you are using any of the Credit Union’s online products, you are protected by state-of-the-art encryption technology that keeps your account transactions safe.

If you’re a victim
If you have replied to any “phishing”e-mail, it is important to report it right away. Call Clearview FCU at 1-800-926-0003 long distance or (412) 269-3011 in Pittsburgh so the appropriate action can be taken. If you have received these types of e-mails but have not yet responded, report them to your Internet service provider or forward the actual message to the Federal Trade Commission at <a href="Mailto:spam@uce.gov">spam@uce.gov</a>.

Identity theft is a growing problem that is reaching new depths of sophistication. Recently, criminals have been turning to the Internet and e-mail in an attempt to lift personal financial information. The latest tactic is called “phishing” (pronounced fishing), whereby online scammers pose as legitimate companies to dupe consumers into sharing confidential financial information such as credit union account numbers, credit card numbers, billing/routing numbers and Social Security numbers.

The “hook” Here is how the scam works: The phishing e-mail informs recipients that their bank/credit union accounts are at risk unless they provide updated personal information. The fraudulent message then directs recipients to click on a link embedded in the e-mail. When victims connect to the linked site – which looks legitimate – they transmit sensitive information without the knowledge that they are connected to a phony site set up to steal their identities.

How to avoid being“phished” With identity theft on the rise and identity thieves becoming increasingly devious at tricking consumers out of their sensitive financial information, there are still ways to avoid being hooked. Do not click on links within e-mails and do not reply to messages requiring you to share personal information. Instead, open a new browser window and type in a Web address you know to be genuine to reach the company. Better yet, take the time to research the phone number and call the company directly to let them know about the scam. Keep in mind that many Web browsers will display a closed padlock symbol at the bottom to verify that you are using a secured site. You can always rest assured that Clearview Federal Credit Union will not initiate a request via e-mail for sensitive information, including your Social Security number, your security ID, your password, PIN or account number. When you are using any of the Credit Union’s online products, you are protected by state-of-the-art encryption technology that keeps your account transactions safe.

If you’re a victim If you have replied to any “phishing”e-mail, it is important to report it right away. Call Clearview FCU at 1-800-926-0003 long distance or (412) 269-3011 in Pittsburgh so the appropriate action can be taken. If you have received these types of e-mails but have not yet responded, report them to your Internet service provider or forward the actual message to the Federal Trade Commission at spam@uce.gov.