Security Information
*NEW* Scams Mimic Government Stimulus Package
Identity thieves posing as representatives of the Internal Revenue Service are sending spam e-mails promising government economic stimulus packages. The message tells the user to download an attachment that is masked as a form they must fill out and send to the IRS to receive their check. However, the document really is an identity theft tool that steals the personal information entered in the form.
Another scam being used promises more information on how to get “economic stimulus grants.” They tempt users with fake testimonials such as, “I found the grant I needed and filled out the forms and sent them in, and in about two weeks I received a check in my hand for $100,000.” It leads to a marketing-type site in which you enter personal information such as salary range, e-mail address, mailing address, and date of birth purportedly to get a free CD that shows you how to claim one of these grants. To order the CD, you must enter credit card information for the postage and handling costs. You never get the CD—only a stolen identity.
Unfortunately, the threat of fraud due to phishing attempts continues to be very active. Fraudsters are increasing in sophistication, and this type of activity shows no sign of slowing down. In these economic times, it is even more critical to continue educating members on the various ways fraudsters try to obtain their personal information for financial gain.
ABNB Federal Credit Union is strongly committed to securing our members’ financial information. If your financial information is ever compromised, please inform us immediately and we will work with you to resolve the issue effectively.
Security Alert— Heartland Credit/Debit Card Data Breach
It has come to our attention that an illegal data intrusion into Heartland Payment Systems' computer network may have resulted in the theft of some of our members' credit and debit card numbers. The intrusion affected merchants that use Heartland's service throughout the United States. Some members maybe affected and we are working with Visa and other agencies in the preliminary stages of this investigation. However, it is important to note that a security breach of this nature is card information only — no personal information linked to card numbers, such as Social Security numbers, PIN numbers, checking or savings account numbers was disclosed. Additionally, Heartland has stated that no data regarding merchants was compromised. Working in conjunction with Visa, we are closely monitoring these cards for suspicious activity.
To find out more information on this latest security alert, you can read our Frequently Asked Questions below and visit Heartland Payment Systems' website at www.2008breach.com for more information.
If you suspect any fraudulent activity on your credit or debit card, you should immediately call the 1-800 number listed on the back of your card(s).
FAQs
Q: What happened in this event?
A: Heartland Payment Systems has experienced unauthorized access to its systems resulting in the potential compromise of card account information from all major card brands.
Q: Should I be worried about identity theft as a result of this event?
A: It is important to know that there wasn’t significant personally identifying information stolen, such as Social Security numbers or addresses so we believe the threat of identity theft has been greatly reduced. In fact, fraud rarely occurs on accounts compromised during a data breach.
Q: What do I do if I feel I am a victim of identity theft?
A: It is a very rare occurrence for any fraud to take place. However, if you feel you are a victim of identity theft you can call (866) ID-Hotline, where victims can receive free and confidential assistance from trained counselors.
Q: How did this happen?
A: When your card number is used to make a purchase, the information is transmitted through multiple payment systems. In this case, a hacker used software to steal card numbers from this processor.
Q: Has my card number been stolen?
A: There is no confirmation at this point. It is important to remember that even if the card number was taken, it is very rare that fraudulent activity will occur. In the unlikely event however that fraud does occur on your account, you are covered by Visa’s & Mastercard Zero Liability Policy. We ask that you please report any suspicious activity to us as soon as possible.
ABNB Federal Credit Union is strongly committed to securing our members’ financial information. If your financial information is ever compromised, please inform us immediately and we will work with you to resolve the issue effectively.
