What is Phishing
Phishing is a form of identity theft where the intent is to steal your valuable personal data, such as credit card numbers, passwords, account data or other information.

What’s going on in the Detroit Area?
The Detroit area is being targeted with an aggressive phishing attempt via automated calls, text messages and direct calls. Individuals are receiving automated calls, text messages and direct calls with generic messages regarding ‘card’, ‘credit card’ or ‘credit account’ suspension. Individuals are asked to input their card account number and PIN information, or to visit a specific Web site to update important account information. It appears that the calls and text messages claim to be from a specific financial institution. Area codes and phone numbers are coming in from different local and out of state areas, with random identifiers such as “Brivia Comm”, “Ohio Call” and Patrician Services”. However, individuals need to be aware that phishing scams typically claim to be credit card companies, banks and major online retailers as well.

How does it work?
A phishing message may indicate that the entity had problems with their computers or data and they are contacting you to simply verify your account information so the next time you use their services you won’t be inconvenienced. Once phishing scammers have your personal data such as your credit card numbers, account numbers and passwords, they can now use your account information to make unauthorized purchases using your credit card or emptying out your bank or other financial account.

What to Look out For?

• With the exception of enrolling or resetting your password in DFCU OnLine, DFCU Financial will NEVER ask for your card number and PIN under any circumstance
• NEVER provide your private personal information and/or card, PIN or account number information to any caller. You can always call the institution back directly to see if there is a legitimate concern
• If you receive these types of calls or text messages, we encourage you to register your complaint with the state attorney general's office. See the contact information below

If You Have Shared Your DFCU Financial Card Information:
Immediately call the lost/stolen number 1-800-449-7728 to report the incident.

For More Information:

• If you have further questions, you may contact Card Services or Loss Prevention as necessary at 313.336.2700 or 888.336.2700 outside the local area.
• To report telemarketing fraud, contact the Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division at:

Consumer Protection Division
P.O. Box 30213
Lansing, MI 48909
517-373-1140
Fax: 517-241-3771
Toll free: 1-877-765-8388
www.michigan.gov/ag (online complaint form)

To get more information about telemarketing fraud and what can be done about it, visit:

http://www.michigan.gov/ag/0,1607,7-164-34739_17343_18163-131622--,00.html