Learn about Fraud

PSCU Automated Fraud Alerts.
Accelerated. Automated. Your Best Defense Against Fraud. At Otero Federal Credit Union, we’re serious about protecting you from fraudulent activity on your accounts. That’s why we’ve strengthened our defenses with a new, automated system that can identify threats faster, notify you sooner and equip you with the tools you need to take immediate action against fraud. Previously, you would have only received a personal call from a live agent if fraud was suspected. The new system allows you to receive an automated call that easily walks you through reviewing suspicious activity on your card. You may also receive Automated Fraud Alerts text messages on your mobile phone. We will also send a fraud alert via email. Our new automated system includes: IMMEDIATE alerts - When suspicious activity has been detected on your account, we don’t wait for an agent to dial your number – our automated system will contact you by text, phone or email. 2-Way Communication - You can take action the second you receive your alert – by texting the provided command word, or interacting with the automated system on the phone; simply follow the instructions to answer questions regarding your recent card activity. Real-time Support - Our live agents are ready to assist you at any time to ensure you receive the best defense exactly when you need it. Don’t delay – Please Log into Online Banking to review and update your contact information to make sure you receive important fraud alerts about your account. Members should be aware that, while OFCU does monitor fraudulent or suspicious account activity and may proactively contact a member about this activity, we will never call and ask for confidential information such as your entire account number or PIN. Contact 1-800-376-9000 or 575-434-8500 if you have provided confidential information.

Fraud Protection and Tips
Avoid falling victim to online scams and fraud by watching out for these common warning signs. If you think your account or personal information is or has been compromised, call us immediately at 575-434-8500 or 1-800-376-9000

What to do if you were scammed...get some advice from consumer.ftc.gov

Report a Scam to your local authorities, the FBI and the Federal Trade Commission. ReportFraud.ftc.gov

Investment Scams: Got an offer to make "lots of money" with "little to no risk"?
Investment scams create the impression that you can "make lots of money" with "little to no risk." They often start on social media, online dating apps, or from an unexpected text, email, or call.
Learn more at ftc.gov/InvestmentScams

Romance Scams: Did your dating app match just ask you for money?
Romance scammers might contact you on social media or dating apps saying they want to get to know you. It’s true love, they say, but they live too far away to meet.
Learn more at ftc.gov/RomanceScams

Phishing: Don't take the Bait!
Scammers use email or text messages to trick you into giving them your personal information. But there are several things you can do to protect yourself.
Learn how to recognize, protect yourself, respond and report phishing here https://www.consumer.ftc.gov

Identity Theft: Protect Yourself!
While identity theft can happen to anyone, there are some things you can do to reduce your risk. If you think someone is using your personal information to open accounts, file taxes, or make purchases, visit IdentityTheft.gov to report and recover from identity theft. Looking for identity theft resources to share in your community? Visit ftc.gov/idtheft .

Phone Scams: Any scam can happen over the phone.
Learn how to recognize a phone scam and the different kind of phone scams used.
Read more at https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/phone-scams#howtorecognize

Social Media: Be Careful Who You Trust
Scammers can hide behind phony profiles on social media. They can take over an account or join a virtual community you trust to encourage you to trust them. But you can make it harder for scammers to target you. Keep up to date at https://www.consumer.ftc.govhttps://www.consumer.ftc.gov/blog/2020/10/scams-start-social-media

Play it Safe with "Smart" Devices
Internet-connected smart toys have opened up a whole new set of possibilities for toys — experiences that are educational, just plain cool, or both. But smart toys run the risk of being hacked by criminals, or having their data misused, just like any other device.
Read more at https://www.consumer.ftc.gov

Card Skimmers: At the gas pump or at your ATM
Skimmers are illegal card readers attached to payment terminals. These card readers grab data off a credit or debit card’s magnetic stripe without your knowledge. Criminals sell the stolen data or use it to buy things online. You won’t know your information has been stolen until you get your statement or an overdraft notice.
For more tips go to https://www.consumer.ftc.gov

Computer Viruses: What to do
You can't turn your computer on or off. It's acting up, running slow, opening pages you didn't click, displaying pop-ups constantly. There's a good chance your computer's been hacked or infected with a virus and needs your help. Watch this video to learn more https://www.consumer.ftc.gov