How do I protect myself from scams?

Often, scammers rush their victims and push lots of emotional hot buttons to get you to stop thinking rationally. Never let strangers force you into fast decisions. Pause, calm yourself and think clearly and critically. Chances are you will quickly see the situation for what it is. Do not be afraid to hang up and validate with your financial institution and/or law enforcement.

Stop. Breathe. Ask Questions.

In today’s digital age, where online interactions have become an integral part of our lives, it is crucial to be aware of the potential risks posed by fraudsters.

They employ various deceptive techniques to deceive unsuspecting individuals and gain unauthorized access to personal information, financial details, or sensitive data.

At Sentinel FCU, we have implemented stringent measures to safeguard against fraud and protect our members.

Scam Alert

June 25, 2024

Fake Home Warranty Letters
Sentinel Federal Credit Union wants to alert our members about a scam involving fraudulent letters. We have reports of pink letters in white envelopes falsely claiming that Sentinel Credit Union is offering home warranties. These letters incorrectly name SFCU as the lender.

Key Facts About the Scam:

  • Misleading Claims: Sentinel Federal Credit Union does not have agents, nor have we contracted with any third party that sell home warranties. Any claims or communications suggesting otherwise are not authorized by SFCU. We advise our members to exercise caution and verify the authenticity of any such claims.
  • Appearance: The scam letters are distinctively pink and come in white envelopes.
  • Potential Risks: Responding to these letters can put your personal and financial information at risk.

What You Should Do:

  1. Do Not Respond: If you receive one of these letters, do not provide any personal or financial information.
  2. Report the Scam: Contact Sentinel Federal Credit Union immediately to report the letter. You can reach us at 605-923-1405.
  3. Notify Authorities: Consider filing a report with your local law enforcement agency to help prevent others from becoming victims.

Protecting Your Information
Your security is our top priority. We encourage all members to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity. Remember, any official communication from Sentinel Federal Credit Union will clearly state our direct contact information and will not be sent in a pink letter. Stay safe and protect your personal information.

How do I protect myself from scams?

Whether you swipe, tap, or click, paying by credit card or debit card makes life a whole lot simpler. But while these cards are an easier, safer alternative to carrying cash, criminals can still target them.

Today’s cards come with several safeguards, including microchips to stop unauthorized charges, but how you use your card is even more important.

There are two essential ways to avoid falling victim to theft, debit card fraud, and credit card fraud: Staying informed and taking steps to protect yourself.

Monitor & Protect Your Card

Whether you prefer to pay by debit or credit, adopt these habits to make sure that your cards only pay for your purchases – not someone else’s.

Keep an eye on your account

Review recent transactions to spot suspicious activity. Our mobile app makes it easy to check your account on the go.

Safeguard your card

Do not leave it lying around the house or keep it visible when you are out in public.

Be careful on the phone

To avoid credit card scams or other fraud, do not give card information over the phone unless you initiated the call yourself. Sentinel FCU will never call you to request sensitive financial information.

Be prepared when you travel

Traveling can be fun, but it also brings an increased risk of theft and fraud. Keep your money secure and make the most of your adventure. Also, Call Sentinel FCUat 605–923-1405 to advise us of your travel plans so that any out of norm transactions are not blocked unless they are deemed to be true fraud.

Report a lost or stolen card immediately

The sooner you act, the easier it is to prevent unauthorized transactions. Here at Sentinel FCU we have made it easy for you to report your card lost or stolen, simply call 800-682-6075 or go to your mobile app and lock your card until you are able to call.

Step Up Your Online Security

Two-thirds of Americans shop online.
With millions of cards being entered and stored in online accounts, protecting this information has never been more crucial.

  • Make sure the site is trustworthy. The URL should start with “HTTPS,” not simply “HTTP.” This indicates that the info you submit is encrypted.
  • Use strong passwords. Choose a long, complex password that is hard to guess. We know it is hard to keep track of so many different logins without writing them on sticky notes (which you should never do), so we suggest storing them in a digital password manager (which is itself password-protected).
  • Beware of email phishing scams. Phishing attacks happen when a criminal impersonates a business you trust (such as your cellphone carrier or financial institution) and tries to trick you into providing sensitive financial information.
  • Be careful with shared computers. Information you enter online may be stored on the computer after you are done. Avoid logging into accounts or entering card info on public computers. You can also use the “incognito” setting on your web browser to make sure sensitive information is erased once you close the browser.

How do I protect myself from scams?

We live in an increasingly cashless society, but it is nice to have easy access to cash when you need it. Here is how you can keep your card and account safe at the ATM:

  • Protect your PIN: Do not share your debit card PIN (or your card) with anyone, and do not use a number that is easy to guess (like your birthday). Also, periodically update your PIN.
  • Use ATMs: Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and make sure no one sees the PIN you enter. Also, do not count your money at the ATM; quickly put it away and take your receipt with you.
  • Make sure the ATM is not compromised: Thieves may attempt to steal card information using a “skimmer,” a small device they attach to the ATM or the card reader on a gas pump. If the card reader is loose or sticks out unusually far, it could be a sign that the machine has been tampered with. ATMs at financial institution branches are closely monitored, so they are a safer choice.

Tips to Prevent Mail Theft

The Postal Service has several suggestions to help prevent mail theft and harm to mail carriers:

  • Don’t let mail sit in your mailbox. Retrieve it daily.
  • Don’t drop mail into a collection box at night. Take it into a post office.
  • You can sign up for Informed Delivery and the Postal Service will send you a preview of what mail and packages are coming.
  • If you are going out of town, sign up to have your mail held at the post office.
  • Be involved in your neighborhood and tell others about mail theft and potential threats to mail carriers.
  • Watch for your mail carrier and if you see something that looks suspicious, or someone following your carrier, call 911.