Southland News

It started with a phone call.

Michael was told there was suspicious activity on his account and that action was needed to keep his money safe. The person on the other end sounded convincing and provided clear instructions on what to do next.

Michael was told to place his debit card, along with his PIN, in his mailbox. Someone would come by to collect it and take care of the rest.

Believing he was protecting his account, Michael followed the instructions.

But the person who arrived wasn't there to help. They were part of the scam.

After collecting Michael's card and PIN, the fraudsters deposited stolen checks into his account and used his information as part of their scheme.

By the time the fraud was uncovered, approximately $7,500 in fraudulent activity had occurred.

What sounded like an effort to protect Michael's account was actually a carefully planned attempt to gain access to it.

Your card and PIN should never be handed over

This scam worked because the fraudsters convinced Michael to give them two things they should never have: his physical debit card and PIN.

Remember: Southland Credit Union will never ask you to leave your card or PIN in a mailbox, send someone to your home to collect them or ask you to provide your PIN.

If someone makes a request like this, stop communicating with them and contact Southland directly at 800.426.1917.

If an unexpected check or deposit appears in your account, do not withdraw, transfer or spend the money. Contact us immediately.

Stop. Hang Up. Verify.

Fraudsters often create a sense of urgency to keep you from questioning their instructions. If someone contacts you claiming there's a problem with your Southland account, hang up and contact us using a trusted phone number.

Remember: Your card stays with you. Your PIN stays private. Neither belongs in the mailbox.