Halloween may be over, but scammers are just getting started!
The holiday season brings online shopping, great deals, and plenty of package deliveries. Unfortunately, it also brings more opportunities for scammers to steal your money and personal information.
You might receive a text about a delayed package, find a deal that seems too good to be true, or get a call from someone claiming to be from your financial institution. These messages may look real, but scammers use them to trick you into sharing your debit card number, PIN, online banking password, or verification code.
The good news? A few simple habits can help you protect yourself and your money.
The Tricks to Watch For
Fake Shopping Websites
Scammers create fake websites that look like real stores and advertise unbelievable deals. You may pay for an item that never arrives or give away your payment information.
Red flag: Prices that seem too good to be true or websites with unusual addresses or misspellings.
Fake Emails and Text Messages
You may receive a message claiming your package is delayed, your delivery address is incorrect, or there’s a problem with your account. These messages often include links designed to steal your personal information.
Red flag: Unexpected messages asking you to click a link, update payment information, or verify your account.
Fake Fraud Department Calls
Someone may call pretending to be from Minnequa Works Credit Union and claim there’s suspicious activity on your debit card. They may ask for your PIN, password, or verification code.
Red flag: Anyone asking you to share sensitive information to supposedly protect your account. Hang up and call us directly using a trusted phone number.
Gift Card and Payment Scams
Scammers may ask you to buy gift cards or send money through a payment app or wire transfer to pay a fee, claim a prize, or handle an emergency.
Red flag: Anyone demanding gift cards or an unusual payment method to resolve a problem or collect a supposed debt.
How to Keep the Treats and Skip the Tricks
1. Shop with trusted retailers.
Visit the store’s official website or use its official app. Be cautious of links in social media ads, emails, and unexpected texts. Remember, a website that uses “https” isn’t automatically safe.
2. Think before you click.
Scammers often create a sense of urgency to get you to act quickly. If a message pressures you to respond immediately, stop and verify it through the company’s official website or app.
3. Keep your information private.
Never share your PIN, online banking password, or one-time verification code with someone who contacts you unexpectedly. Minnequa Works Credit Union will never ask you to provide these details by phone, text, or email.
4. Check your account regularly.
Review your transactions through online or mobile banking. Even small, unfamiliar charges could be a sign of fraud. If you notice something suspicious, contact us right away.
5. Use transaction alerts and card controls.
Turn on transaction alerts to help you spot unexpected purchases. If your debit card is lost, stolen, or compromised, use the available card controls in the online banking app to lock it and contact us for assistance.
We’re Here to Help!
If you notice a transaction you don’t recognize, think your card information has been stolen, or believe you’ve fallen for a scam, contact Minnequa Works Credit Union at (719) 544-6928 as soon as possible.
If your card is missing or you suspect unauthorized use, lock it through your available card controls while you contact us.
Not sure if it’s fraud? It’s always better to ask! You don’t have to be certain something is wrong before reaching out.
Don’t Let Scammers Spoil Your Holiday Season
A little caution can go a long way. Watch for suspicious messages, protect your personal information, and keep an eye on your account activity.
Have a safe, happy, and fraud-free holiday season!
Minnequa Works Credit Union — Here to help protect your money, all year long.
About Minnequa Works Credit Union
Founded in Pueblo in 1937, Minnequa Works Credit Union is a locally focused, member-owned financial cooperative committed to helping individuals, families, businesses, and communities build stronger financial futures. Through accessible financial services, community partnerships, financial education, and local investment, Minnequa Works continues its longstanding commitment to the credit union philosophy of People Helping People.
Forged in steel. Driven by purpose. Proudly serving Southern Colorado.
