Real benefits designed to make your financial life easier.

Your security isn’t optional — it’s essential.

NWCCU provides clear, practical steps to protect your identity and accounts.

Includes guidance across:

• Credit protection

• Scam awareness

• Email, text, phone, mail safety

• Card skimmers

• QR code safety

• Social media security

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Fraud Awareness & Member Security

Northwest Community Credit Union is committed to helping members protect their personal and financial information. Fraud can take many forms, and staying informed is one of the best ways to reduce risk. Scammers often impersonate trusted organizations, create urgency, or pressure individuals to act quickly without verification.
 

Common scam tactics include requests for payment through gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency, or peer-to-peer payment apps. Fraudsters may also send fake checks, claim you’ve won a prize, or pose as a company or government agency. If something feels unexpected or urgent, pause and verify before taking action.
 

Members can take proactive steps to protect their credit by enrolling in free credit monitoring services, reviewing credit reports regularly, and placing a credit freeze when appropriate. Monitoring your credit helps detect suspicious activity early and can limit potential damage.

Email scams often include spelling errors, unfamiliar sender addresses, urgent language, or links requesting personal information. Members should avoid clicking suspicious links, never share sensitive details through email, and keep devices and software up to date with the latest security protections.
 

Mail scams may look official but often demand immediate payment or personal information. Always verify contact information through trusted sources and be cautious of unsolicited notices, especially after major financial events such as opening a new loan or account.

Text message scams frequently claim delivery issues, unpaid fees, or account problems. Legitimate organizations do not request sensitive information through text messages. Be wary of unfamiliar numbers, urgent requests, or links that prompt immediate action.
 

Phone scams commonly involve callers demanding secrecy or immediate payment. Government agencies and financial institutions do not request payment via gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency. If a call feels suspicious, hang up and contact the organization directly using a verified number.
 

When shopping online, use trusted retailers and look for secure websites. Be cautious of prices that seem too good to be true, unfamiliar sellers, or poorly designed websites. Using a credit card instead of a debit card can provide added protection.
 

QR codes can be convenient, but they can also be used to redirect users to fraudulent sites. Before scanning, consider whether the source is trustworthy and whether the information can be accessed directly through an official website instead.
 

Card skimmers may be placed on ATMs, gas pumps, or payment terminals to steal card information. Inspect card readers for signs of tampering, cover the keypad when entering a PIN, and review account statements regularly for unauthorized activity.
 

Social media scams often involve fake profiles, urgent messages, or requests for verification codes. Members should avoid sharing personal information publicly, verify accounts before engaging, and review privacy settings to limit exposure.
 

If you ever suspect fraud or have concerns about your account, contact Northwest Community Credit Union promptly for assistance.