Scam Targeting Debit and Credit Card Users

December 4, 2014

There has been a recent increase in a phishing scam asking for important account information. Members have reported receiving a recorded message that states, “Hello, your VISA card has been locked, press 1 to activate.” It then proceeds to ask for PIN information. Bay Federal reminds you to never, under any circumstances, supply your name, account number, PIN number, or password. Financial Institutions will never ask for personal account data, including card and PIN information. These Phishing scams are designed to gain access to your account information and could lead to identity theft. 

As a reminder, it is always best practice to regularly monitor your accounts to look for any suspicious or unusual activity.  

Additional Q&A:

What happens if I gave my PIN information?
If you have released account information, please call Bay Federal as soon as you can at 831-479-6000. We will close your current card and  issue you a new one to avoid potential fraudulent charges.

Can I identify the number on caller ID?
These recorded messages use different numbers for each batch of calls. This makes it hard to determine a set phone number. When trying to call these numbers back, you will be sent to a disconnected number. Please be aware of answering calls from unidentified numbers.

How do I know that it wasn't Bay Federal that called me?
Bay Federal will never call with a recording asking for important account information. Should you get a suspicious call and are not sure, please hang up and dial Bay Federal Credit Union directly.

I’m doing a lot of holiday shopping, how can I be without my card?
We understand that this is an important time of year to have access to your Debit and Credit Cards. As always, we will do our best to get you a new card as soon as possible. In the meantime, you can help us by checking and monitoring your account for any unusual or suspicious activity. The best way to monitor your Debit or Credit Card account activity is through BayFedOnline (link).

Should I report these calls to the authorities?
Although these calls are quite common, you may always consider alerting local authorities. Most districts are already aware of these occurrences.

For additional information about keeping your card information safe, see our Credit and Debit Card Fraud Prevention information sheet, and the Fraud Prevention information on our website.