Call Federal identifies fraud scheme, working with law enforcement

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Call Federal is investigating several fraud reports that we believe to be connected. We are diligently researching the accounts of the members who alerted us to this issue and are proactively identifying and contacting members who may have been compromised.

The reports include unauthorized transactions from stores and ATMs in southern U.S. states. We believe that member information was acquired resulting from a scam tactic known as spoofing. There is no evidence that our internal systems have been compromised. Members that we have confirmed as compromised will have zero liability and pay nothing in the event of unauthorized transactions.

So far, our investigation has uncovered that only a small number of members have been affected. Risk and security protocols have been modified to specifically address the areas that the fraudsters were exploiting. Those affected will have their funds restored as soon as possible and we are working with law enforcement on this investigation.

How Does Spoofing Work?

A spoofing scam begins with a call that appears to come from an organization you know, like Call Federal or any financial institution. You feel comfortable sharing account information because you believe you are speaking with a legitimate representative of this organization. Fraudsters take the information you’ve given them and then gain access to your funds, typically through an ATM or by purchasing gift cards at a store. To protect yourself, it is important to know that, if Call Federal (or any other organization) were to call you, we would already have all the information associated with your account, meaning you should not have to provide your account number. A financial institution should never ask for your debit card number or any other information found on it.

Important Steps Members Can Take

  • If you think you have been compromised, please fill out the form on our identity theft webpage and someone from our Risk Management team will be in touch with you shortly.
  • If you would like to change your debit card PIN number, please call 804-274-1200 or visit any Call Federal branch or ATM location, as this procedure has been updated.
  • Never give your account number, PIN, or CVV (3-digits on the back of the card), to someone who has called you on the phone.
  • Regularly check your account for fraudulent activity.
  • If a legitimate member of the Call Federal team reaches out to you, we will leave a message and a name, so you can call us back. Fraudsters will not. If you receive a call from someone claiming to be from Call Federal, hang up and call our member service number (804-274-1200) and ask for the person who just called you.

The security of your accounts and personal information is our highest priority. If you have any questions regarding this or other matters regarding identity theft prevention, please contact us by phone at 804-274-1200 or via email to [email protected].

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