Security Alerts

July 30, 2010

Skimming devices found at Gainesville, Florida gas stations.

We have been informed of skimming scams at gas stations along I-75 in Gainesville, Florida. Authorities found skimmer devices installed inside gas pumps to steal credit card numbers.

This criminal activity is an attempt at identity theft.

Authorities said that the skimmers installed at pumps are equipped with Bluetooth, allowing stolen credit card information to be retrieved using a cell phone or laptop computer.

Use caution! To ensure the security of credit card information, you may want to go inside to purchase gas instead of paying at the pump.

We recommend that you monitor your credit card statements closely. If you see any unauthorized transactions, please call us immediately at (800) 766-4328, ext. 1 [in Jacksonville, (904) 359-6800, ext. 1].
 

June 28, 2010

Fraudsters are using phone calls, emails, and/or text messages in an attempt to steal personal information.

First Florida Credit Union has been alerted to increased scams through phishing calls and messages. DO NOT RESPOND to calls from (800) 395-2274 or (352) 224-3148, or to emails from Citibank saying account information has been changed.

Protect yourself from unsolicited, fraudulent email; phone calls; text messages; and online scams that ask you to supply or verify pertinent account information.

First Florida or any of its divisions would never request personal or financial identification or account information through an email, by phone or text message, or other electronic channel.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us at (800) 766-4328, ext., 1 [in Jacksonville (904) 359-6800, ext. 1].

May 26, 2010

The NCUA reports that fraudulent emails (which simulate their email boxes) are being sent -- asking for credit union member participation in an Online Survey or Member Survey. As an incentive to respond to the email, the message promises payment of $40.

The email is an attempt at Identity Theft
If you receive these suspicious emails, please do not respond. Fraudsters are attempting to steal your personal and/or account information.

Protect yourself from becoming a victim:
  • NEVER respond to fraudulent emails; unsolicited text messages; or online scams that ask you to
    supply or verify confidential account or personal information.
  • Monitor your accounts on a regular basis.
  • Immediately report any unauthorized activity to the credit union.

NCUA and First Florida or any of its divisions would never request personal or financial identification or account information through an email, by phone or text message, or other electronic channel.

If you have questions or concerns, call us at (800) 766-4328, ext. 1 [in Jacksonville (904) 359-6800, ext. 1.]

May 16, 2010

Scammers are using text messages, voice mail, and/or phone calls to steal personal information.
Leaving messages saying they're calling from "your" credit union or bank.

We have become aware of a phishing scam using telephone calls, voice mail, and text messages. The scammer leaves either a voice message or text stating that they're calling from "your" credit union and that there's an issue involving your card or account.

This is an attempt at identity theft.
The message instructs the recipient to call a toll-free phone number. If the recipient returns the call, the fraudster attempts to steal their account, PIN (personal identification number), and/or other personal information.

Protect yourself from becoming a victim:

  • NEVER respond to a text message or phone call that requests personal or account information.
  • Report any suspicious text messages or calls to the credit union immediately.
  • Monitor your accounts (deposit and credit card accounts) on a regular basis.
  • Immediately report any unauthorized transactions.


First Florida (or Seaboard) would never request a PIN, social security number, or other sensitive information by phone message, text message, or other electronic channel.

If you have questions, call us at (800) 766-4328, ext. 1 [in Jacksonville (904) 359-6800, ext. 1.]

April 16, 2010
Alleged Skimming Devices At Some Jacksonville-Area Publix ATMs

Numerous Jacksonville-area financial institutions have reported fraudulent ATM transactions that are alleged to have originated from skimming devices planted at some Publix ATMs throughout Jacksonville, Florida.

Skimming occurs when a thief obtains bank and PIN (Personal Identification Number) information from an ATM and/or point-of-sale terminal by inserting a device (that reads account information) into the existing machine; installing a false keypad over an existing one; or installing a tiny camera that enables the thief to see PINS as they are entered on the keypad.

Preliminary investigations tell us that the thieves are using the stolen account information to perform withdrawals at ATMs located in California and Canada. Due to these recent events/warnings and for our members’ protection, First Florida will be lowering ATM withdrawal limits and placing restrictions on international and other transactions. Please contact the credit union if you’re planning on traveling outside the country.

Below are a few steps you can take to protect yourself:

• Watch for fake speaker covers or other odd devices placed above the keypad. If you see dangling wires or multiple scanning devices, do not use the machine.

• When you key-in your code, use something to cover your hands and obscure the numbers.

• Always record your transactions. Skimming thieves have been known to make small purchases close to the amount of your transaction, so you'll be less likely to suspect fraud.

• Check your account regularly and check your statements when you receive them. If you see a transaction you cannot explain, report it to us immediately.

• Perform signature-based transactions instead of a PIN transaction.

We appreciate your understanding and cooperation. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us at (904) 359-6800, ext. 1 or (800) 766-4328, ext., 1.