Learn to recognize fraudulent texts

If you receive a fraudulent message via text, email, or phone, DO NOT respond and DO NOT click on any links. It could allow malware to be installed on your devices.

Text scam graphic
Text scam graphic
Text scam graphic

Preventative tips you should know

  1. 1  Do not respond to suspicious or unsolicited texts, emails, or phone calls.
  2. 2  Achieva Credit Union will NEVER ask you for verification codes or passwords.
  3. 3  Always keep your mobile apps and software up to date.
  4. 4  Practice structured password control, management, and creation.
  5. 5  Shred unwanted paperwork that contains your personal information.
  6. 6  Never give your debit or credit card information to unsolicited contacts.
  7. 7  Be sure you know the correct spelling of your financial institution's web address. You should inspect it letter by letter. For instance, Achieva Credit Union's website is www.achievacu.com. Any other form of the web address, such as achieva-cu or achievecu may be a fraudulent website.
What is social engineering?
What is social engineering?

Social engineering is the manipulation of someone to divulge confidential information that can be used for fraudulent purposes. Learn how to identify red flags found in phishing emails or messages.

What is smishing?
What is smishing?

Smishing is the practice of sending text messages to trick individuals into revealing personal information, such as passwords or credit card numbers.

Looking for more fraud tips?
Looking for more fraud tips?

Read blog articles about online safety tips, avoiding text scams, and more. Visit www.achievalife.com

Common questions related to fraud

I received a text message and/or e-mail from Achieva Fraud Department, is this from Achieva?

Achieva does utilize our card processor to monitor fraudulent debit and credit card activity. If you receive a call claiming to be from Achieva Credit Union inquiring about recent account activity, please hang up and dial the telephone number on the back of your debit or credit card to verify.

  • Do not wire money for transactions you did not initiate. Also, learn your title company’s process for wiring funds.
  • Once you wire money, it is like giving cash. It’s almost impossible to get it back.
  • Do not click on links. Robotexts often contain malware or other intrusive software.
  • Refrain from responding, even if prompted to reply ‘NO’. Responding signals to the scammer that the number is valid and active, which could result in more frequent attempts.
  • Never send personal or financial information to an unknown text.
  • Be wary of Caller ID since it can be spoofed to look like a trusted source. The best practice is to hang up and call the company back directly by using a known number from your contacts or paperwork.
  • Do you know the person? Ask yourself why a stranger needs the gift card from you. They most likely will say it’s for an emergency. Be cautious of the situation’s legitimacy.
  • Gift cards are not intended for payments. If someone convinced you to give them the numbers on a gift card or send them a photo, hang onto the card and your receipt, and report it.
  • The FTC website is a good source. It provides an in-depth look at fraudulent gift card purchases.
  • Never give your personal information from an incoming, unsolicited phone call or text.
  • Do not panic! The scammer intentionally tries to create a sense of urgency as a distraction.
  • Do not remove your phone number from the Zelle app.
  • Caller ID can be spoofed. Do not go by the number that called you.
  • Verify the situation independently by hanging up and calling the number on the back of your debit or credit card.

  If you suspect fraudulent activity, report it directly to Achieva Credit Union. Call 800.593.2274 or fill out form above.