Fraud Alerts

Text Message Phishing Scam

CO-OP Financial Services has notified credit unions in the past about email phishing scams and deceitful attempts to obtain cardholder information with the intent of committing fraudulent activity against member accounts. Multiple credit unions have recently reported a phishing scam.

 This fraudulent attempt to capture card numbers is done with an automated text message referring to themselves as "CO-OP Services Credit Union Customer Services Department" from the four-digit phone number: 3693.

The text message indicates that the member’s credit or debit card has unusual activity on their account. In order to restore the member’s account access, the message asks the member to call 813.600.1551 and enter their 16-digit credit or debit card number along with three additional pieces of information that is linked to the member’s account.

CO-OP Financial Services would never refer to themselves as CO-OP Services Credit Union Customer Services Department, and would not send text messages to cardholders about their accounts. 

There are so many ways for perpetrators to attempt to get personal information, including the use of auto-dialers and text messages. It is important to limit the release of your personal information in order to protect yourself from fraud.

 Posted 10/31/08