Protect Yourself from Phone Spoofing Scams

Protect Yourself from Phone Spoofing Scams

At Universal 1 Credit Union, keeping your personal information safe is always our top priority. Unfortunately, phone spoofing scams have become more common, with fraudsters pretending to represent trusted organizations — including financial institutions. Their goal is to trick you into sharing personal or account information that could be used for identity theft or unauthorized access.

Here’s how to recognize and handle phone spoofing attempts to help protect yourself.

What Is Phone Spoofing?

Phone spoofing occurs when scammers change their caller ID to make it appear as though the call is coming from a trusted source. They often use phone numbers from banks, government agencies, or tech support services to make the call look legitimate. In some cases, they may also send text messages or emails to appear more convincing.

If something feels off or unexpected, pause before responding.

How to Spot a Spoofing Scam

It’s important to remember — Universal 1 Credit Union will never call, text, or email you asking for personal information.
We will never request:

• Your account number
• Your Social Security number
• Your card number
• Your passwords or PINs

If you receive a call or text claiming to be from U1 asking for this type of information, it’s a scam — even if the caller ID looks legitimate. Scammers can easily fake phone numbers to appear as if they’re calling from U1.

What to Do if You Receive a Suspicious Call, Text, or Email

1. Do Not Share Personal Information
   Never provide personal or account details to anyone who contacts you unexpectedly. U1 will never ask for this information over the phone, text, or email.
2. Hang Up and Contact U1 Directly
   If you’re unsure about a call, hang up and call us directly at 937-431-3100 or visit your nearest U1 branch. Our team can verify any communication you’ve received.
3. Avoid Clicking Links or Opening Attachments
   Do not click on links or open attachments from unknown or suspicious emails or texts — they could lead to fake websites or install malware on your device.
4. Report It
   If you suspect a spoofing attempt, report it to us immediately. We’ll help review your account activity and guide you on next steps.
5. If You Shared Information by Mistake
   Visit the Federal Trade Commission’s website for guidance on what to do if you’ve been scammed:
   What to Do if You Were Scammed →

Stay Aware and Stay Protected

Scammers can make calls look like they’re coming from a trusted number — even Universal 1 Credit Union’s main line. Remember, caller ID alone isn’t a reliable way to verify a call. When in doubt, always contact U1 directly using our verified contact information.

Your safety and peace of mind are what matter most to us. For more tips on keeping your information secure, visit our Online Security Page.