Recognizing and Avoiding Financial Scams

Scammers work hard to look legitimate, and they often reach out when you least expect it. A text about a frozen account, a call from someone claiming to be your bank, an email with an urgent link, all of these are designed to rush you into acting before you think. At Nova UA Federal Credit Union, we want every member to feel confident spotting these tricks early. The good news is that most scams follow a few familiar patterns. Once you know what to look for, you can protect your money and your personal information with a little healthy caution.

Common Scams to Watch For

Scams come in many forms, but a handful show up again and again. Phishing texts and emails pretend to be from a trusted company and push you to click a link or share account details. Phone impostor scams involve someone posing as your credit union, a government agency, or even a family member in trouble. Fake check and overpayment scams send you a check for more than you are owed, then ask you to return the difference before the check bounces. Romance and job scams build trust over time, then ask for money or to move funds on someone else's behalf. Many of these end with the same ask: buy gift cards, send a wire transfer, or share a one-time passcode. A real business will never need those things to sort out your account.

Spot the Red Flags

Most scams share a few warning signs. Watch for urgency, since pressure to act right now is meant to stop you from thinking clearly. Be cautious when anyone asks for personal information like your password, PIN, Social Security number, or a one-time code sent to your phone. Be alert to any push to move money quickly, whether by wire, gift card, or a payment app. Requests to keep the conversation secret are another signal that something is wrong. Remember this simple rule: Nova UA will never call, text, or email you to ask for your password, PIN, or one-time passcode. If someone does, it is not us.

What to Do If Something Feels Off

When a message or call raises doubts, slow down. Do not share codes, passwords, or account numbers, and do not click links in unexpected texts or emails. Verify by calling the number printed on the back of your card, never a number the caller gives you. If you bank on the go, you can check your account safely through mobile banking to see whether anything is truly wrong. If you were targeted or shared something you should not have, report it to Nova UA right away so we can help protect your account. You can talk to a Member Services Team member anytime, and our Member Services Team is glad to walk you through next steps. Not yet part of the credit union? You can become a member and get support like this whenever you need it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will Nova UA ever ask for my one-time passcode?

No. Nova UA will never ask for your password, PIN, or a one-time passcode by phone, text, or email. Those codes are for you alone. If anyone requests one, hang up or delete the message, then contact Nova UA directly if the call pertained to your debit card, or call the credit card company using the number on the back of the card and contact Nova UA directly or call the credit card company us using the number on the back of the crediton your card.

A caller says my account is at risk and I must act now. What should I do?

Pause. Urgency is a classic scam tactic. Hang up and call Nova UA directly to speak with someone from our Member Services Team to verify your account status, or call your credit lender using the number on the back of your card. If the alert is real, our team can confirm it. If it is not, you have kept your money safe.

I already sent money or shared information. Is it too late?

Contact Nova UA as soon as possible. The sooner we know, the more we can do. Our Member Services Team will guide you through securing your account and the next steps.

Stay a Step Ahead

Scammers count on speed and surprise, but you hold the advantage the moment you slow down and verify. Trust your instincts, protect your codes, and reach out whenever something feels off. Nova UA is here to help you keep your money and your peace of mind right where they belong.