Is That Text Really From Your Credit Union? 7 Signs of a Bank Text Scam
Is That Text Really From Your Credit Union? 7 Signs of a Bank Text Scam
Your phone buzzes:
“Suspicious transaction detected. Click here immediately to secure your account.”
It looks urgent. It may even appear to come from a familiar number. But should you click?
Fake bank texts are designed to create panic before you have time to think. During Cybersecurity Awareness Month, learn how to pause, verify, and protect your account.
Do Credit Unions Send Fraud Alert Texts?
Yes, legitimate fraud alerts exist. ServU Visa Debit Cards include 24/7 fraud monitoring. If unusual activity is detected, you may receive a text asking whether a transaction is valid.
However, ServU will never contact you by text, email, or phone to request your:
- Online Banking username or password
- PIN
- Full debit or credit card number
- Other personal financial information
A legitimate alert may ask you to verify a transaction. It should not ask you to reveal the information needed to access your account.
7 Signs of a Fake Bank Text
1. It demands immediate action
Scammers use phrases like “act now,” “account suspended,” or “unauthorized charge” to make you react without thinking.
2. It asks you to click a link
The link may lead to a convincing copy of a real financial website. Instead of clicking, open your financial institution’s app or type its website into your browser.
3. It requests private information
ServU will never ask for your password, PIN, or card number through an unexpected message.
4. It asks for a verification code
Never share a one-time security code with someone who contacts you. That code could help a scammer access your account.
5. The sender or web address looks strange
Watch for misspelled names, unusual numbers, shortened links, or web addresses that are slightly different from the real website.
6. It tells you to move money
A scammer may claim your money is at risk and instruct you to transfer it to a “safe” account. A legitimate financial institution will not ask you to protect your account by sending money elsewhere.
7. Something simply feels wrong
Scam messages are becoming more convincing, so poor spelling is no longer guaranteed. If a message feels unusual, trust that instinct and verify it independently.
What Should You Do With a Suspicious Text?
Remember these three words: Pause. Verify. Protect.
- Do not click the link or reply.
- Do not call a number included in the message.
- Open your trusted banking app or visit the official website yourself.
- Contact ServU directly at 607-936-2293.
- Review your account for unfamiliar transactions.
You can also forward suspicious texts to 7726 (SPAM) and report scams through the Federal Trade Commission.
What If You Already Clicked?
Do not panic—but act quickly.
- Close the page and do not enter additional information.
- Contact ServU immediately.
- Review your recent account activity.
- Continue monitoring your accounts for unfamiliar transactions.
The sooner you report suspicious activity, the sooner ServU can help you determine your next steps.
When in Doubt, Contact ServU
Scammers can make a message or phone number appear legitimate. You never have to respond immediately.
Hang up, ignore the text, and contact ServU using a number you know is correct. Visit our Fraud Center for current security alerts and additional ways to protect your information.
A five-second pause could protect much more than your phone—it could protect your identity and your money.
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