ROME, NY – NOVEMBER 25, 2024: AmeriCU Credit Union is committed to the safety of its members and the communities they serve. That’s why the credit union is urging everyone to stay vigilant and be wary of potential fraudulent attempts.

While holidays are a time of family gatherings and spreading cheer, unfortunately it’s also a time for increased fraud and scams due to the high number of transactions, increased charitable giving, and the busy time of year. As scams become more sophisticated it can be hard to tell what’s real and what’s not, especially when the fraudsters claim to be representing organizations you know and trust.

“We are continuously looking for new fraud prevention tools to help protect against scams, but staying secure is a team effort,” says Diana Morat, Assistant Vice President of Specialty Banking and Fraud Prevention for AmeriCU Credit Union. “While we as a financial institution need to stay up to date on the latest fraud trends and have the tools to help minimize fraud, individuals need to stay vigilant as well.”

The credit union urges you to think twice and trust your instinct. Don’t respond to urgent phone calls or text messages that sound unfamiliar. Don’t give out your personal information or passwords. Don’t be fooled by official checks or prize drawings. Don’t send money or gift cards to unknown parties. Don’t click any links in e-mails or text messages. And, if something seems too good to be true, it likely is.

“It’s important that you’re informed and, most importantly, protected, so that you and yours can enjoy the holidays free from fraudulent activity!” Morat states.

For more information on holiday fraud and ways you can stay protected, visit www.americu.org/news/be-alert-this-holiday-season/.

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About AmeriCU Credit Union

As a credit union, AmeriCU is a not-for-profit financial institution owned by our members. Serving 24 counties in New York and beyond, AmeriCU provides you with all the products and services you need – often with low or no fees, and better rates. The organization has been serving the local community for over 74 years and, in that time, has grown to more than 167,000 members, 20 financial centers, and $2.7 billion in assets. AmeriCU is located in Central New York and is among the State’s largest, full-service financial cooperatives. For more information, visit www.AmeriCU.org.