SCAM TEXT MESSAGES
Members, it has come to our attention that scammers are targeting credit union members across Ireland with a series of fake text messages asking people to update their account details by clicking on a link. All credit unions are aware of the activity and are working with members, their regulatory partners and An Garda Siochana to safeguard member savings.
No Credit Union will ever ask a member to update their credit union account detail, share their PIN number or member details – by text, link or over the phone. Our staff are trained to go through a strict verification and identification process that is in place to protect our members and guard against unscrupulous scammers gaining access to member funds.
If you are concerned with any communication that appears to be sent from Blanchardstown & District Credit Union, please contact our office and one of our team will be happy to help you.
Here is an example of a recent FAKE SMS:
Things that cause suspicion in this text:
Every credit union is individual and would identify itself by name in the text – this is from CREDIT UNION which doesn’t exist and there isn’t one system for all.
Any account changes, updates or amendments would involve a face to face conversation, this is to safeguard your funds and protect you against fraud.
We would never contact a member by text message to update any detail of their account.
Finally, look at the website address – again a non-specific address, you can see the start of our website address contains our name.
What do you do if you get a text or an email or a phone call that asks you to update/share your credit union account details?
Do not react – do not click a link, reply or engage – call our offices on 01-820 3495 and speak to a member of our team, we are here to help.
If a caller is persistent, continue to ignore, contact our offices.
We are sorry that anything like this even exists, be assured that we remain vigilant about any fraudulent activities and will advise our members immediately.
We would also appreciate you discussing this with any family members who may be vulnerable to fraudsters. We are stronger together.
Remember – Think before you click. If in doubt, call us, we are here to help
If you have received a text that makes you suspicious or demands an action from you as it the example above, or clicked on the link thinking it is from Blanchardstown & District Credit Union, contact us immediately.
You can email us at info@blanchardstowncu.ie, you can call us on 01-820 3495 or call in to our offices and speak to a member of our team.
Be Fraud Aware