Fraud Friday: Understanding Phishing Scams
When in Doubt, Check It Out
Phishing scams are one of the most common ways fraudsters attempt to steal personal and financial information. These scams typically arrive by email but can also appear through text messages or direct messages. The message is designed to look like it comes from a trusted source — such as a financial institution, retailer, delivery service, or even a government agency.
The goal of a phishing scam is simple: create urgency and prompt you to act quickly. You might receive a message saying your account has been locked, suspicious activity has been detected, or a package cannot be delivered. The message will often include a link asking you to “verify” your information. Once clicked, that link may lead to a fake website designed to capture passwords, account numbers, or other sensitive information.
Common Warning Signs of Phishing
Phishing attempts often include:
- Urgent or threatening language
- Requests for passwords, account numbers, or one-time verification codes
- Links that don’t match the official website
- Misspellings or unusual email addresses
If you were not expecting the message, that’s your first red flag.
How to Protect Yourself
Protecting yourself from phishing scams starts with slowing down. Do not click links or open attachments from unexpected emails. Never provide personal or financial information in response to an unsolicited message.
If you are unsure whether a message is legitimate, contact the organization directly using a phone number or website you trust — not the contact information provided in the message.
At Great Falls Credit Union, your security is a top priority. If something feels suspicious, we encourage you to pause and reach out to us before taking action.
When in doubt, check it out.
