Security & Fraud Center

IMPORTANT
Service scams are on the rise. Protect your bank info by recognizing red flags. Be wary of urgent messages, requests for personal info, and anyone asking to meet in-person. If you receive unexpected calls, texts, or emails, call us directly at 281-398-9900 to verify! Learn to Spot Red Flags


Don’t fall for fake. Learning how scammers work will help keep your hard-earned money safe. 

This is your go-to hub for staying one step ahead of scammers to protect your money. Filled with articles, tips, and tools, it’s like having a personal expert that knows all the tricks, so you can spot the fakes without breaking a sweat.

Watch for these six red flags of a scam in emails, 
calls, and texts:

1. They ask you to open a link.



2. They use urgent or fear-inducing language.


3. They send an attachment.



4. They request personal info like PINs, passwords, or social security numbers.


5. They pressure you to log into, or send money with, payment apps.


6. They call or text you after office hours, or on the weekends.

But wait, keep going! Recognizing a scam is just the first step. 

If anything doesn’t feel right, call Members Choice directly at 281-398-9900. 

Step up your security game.

1. Enable multi-factor authentication on top of your username and password.  
2. Use a strong and unique password. 
3. Update your software and devices.  
4. Use antivirus software on your computer.  
5. Read your credit card and bank statements carefully and often.  
6. Know your payment due dates. If a bill doesn't show up when you expect it, look into it.  
7. Shred any documents with personal and financial information.  
8. Review each of your three credit reports at least once a year. It's easy, and it's free. 

Think you got scammed? Do this.

1. Contact Members Choice Credit Union by calling our main service number – 281-398-9900.  
2. Report the fraud through our online form
3. Change your passwords and visit IdentityTheft.gov
 4. Report the scam to the FTC here
 5. If you lost money, file a police report. 

Plus, we’ve got your back with these extra ways we keep your money safe. 

  • Freeze your debit card anytime with card controls in Online and Mobile Banking (Go to Accounts > Manage My Cards and then "Block this card"
  • Get purchase alerts for your Debit Mastercard®, Transfers and More (Go to Tools & Support > My Personal Alerts)
  • Secure your Online and Mobile Banking with Touch ID and security questions  (Go to Tools & Support > Settings)
  • Join our annual “Shred Days” to safely shred sensitive documents 

Scammers keep on scamming—let's find more resources.

Scammers are always coming up with new tricks to steal your money—it’s kind of surprising how clever they can be. Many people think it won’t happen to them, but it definitely can. Check out these resources to get started and stay sharp—don’t fall for fake!

 

Recognizing and Avoiding Scams

Defend yourself against scammers by learning to recognize red flags.


Should I swipe my card or insert the chip when paying? What’s the difference?

Knowing the differences between swiping your card or inserting your chip can help make your purchasing process easier and safer.

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Preventing Identity Theft
Stay alert against fraud and stay ahead of scammers and thieves.


Tips to Protect Elderly Family Members from Scams

Protect elderly family members from scams with these valuable tips and resources.

50 Internet Safety Tips for 2024

Protect yourself from online safety threats by learning 50 common internet safety tips.



Love or Fraud? Recognizing the Warning Signs of an Online Romance Scam

Safely navigate online romances and prioritize safety for a genuine connection.

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Investment Warning Signs & Red Flags

Learn how to identify the warning signs of bad or inappropriate investments.



Top 5 Money Scams Targeting Kids & Teens and How to Avoid Them

Learn how to protect your kids from money scams with our guide on the top 5 scams targeting kids & teens.


More Resources

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau is a government agency that makes sure you are treated fairly by financial institutions, check out their toolkit on fraud prevention and understand your rights as a consumer. https://www.consumerfinance.gov/consumer-tools/fraud/

With investment scams increasing, it's important to avoid falling victim to them. This trusted resource, supported by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), can help you stay informed and confident in your investment strategies. https://www.investor.gov/

What is the difference between fraud and merchant dispute?
There are times when charges may show up on your statement and you don’t know why. Sometimes these charges are due to fraud, but sometimes not. To assist you with making the decision about whether you should dispute a charge or make a fraud claim, please review the following information, then click on this form link:









Disclosures

If not currently a Members Choice member, a $5 deposit is needed to establish membership. All memberships are subject to approval including credit approval.