Safety & Security

Be Alert and Don't Fall Victim to Scammers!

Scammers work 24/7 and never take a day off. That means consumers need to be extra vigilant and educated when it comes to fraud and scams. Scammers may pose as a business or person you know—like AEA, a utility company, or a friend or relative. Sometimes they push you and make things feel urgent. Other times, they ‘spoof’ a phone number you know to call or text you which makes spotting a scam even harder.

AEA Federal Credit Union will never contact you directly to ask for your personal information (social security number, member or account information) over the phone, through email, chat window, social media or messaging apps.

You can minimize the potential impact of fraud by being proactive and educated. Visit the National Credit Union Administration’s Fraud Prevention Center and learn how to monitor your credit, protect yourself from scams, and protect your children's credit and financial future.

Phishing

Phishing is when scammers impersonate a business to trick you into giving them your personal information, such as usernames, passwords and credit card details. Legitimate businesses do not ask you to send sensitive information through insecure channels.

Vishing

Phishing by voice, or vishing, exploits a general trust in telephone services. The victim is often unaware that voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) allows for caller ID spoofing, which gives the criminal caller anonymity. Rather than providing any information to the caller, always verify the call by contacting the business or person directly, being sure to use their accurate contact information (i.e., do not use contact information the caller provides).

SMishing

Phishing via SMS, or SMishing, uses cell phone text messages or SMS (Short Message Service) to trick you into providing personal and financial information. Smishers may use URLs or an automated voice response system to try and collect your information.

For assistance with any fraud incidents, please call (928) 783-8881 or visit a branch.