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'SMiShing' Scam Information

'SmiShing' is a type of social engineering that uses cell phone text messages to persuade victims to provide personal information such as card number, CVV2, and PINs. The text message may contain either a website address or more commonly, a phone number that connects to an automated voice response system, which then asks for personal information. The following are examples of SMiShing messages sent to cardholders:

  • Text message originating from either notice@jpecu or message@cccu:

    • ABC CU- has- deactivated-your-Debit_card. To-reactivate-contact:210957XXXX

    • This is an automated message from ABC Bank. Your ATM card has been suspended. To reactivate call urgent at 1-866-215-XXXX

  • Text message originating from sms.alert@visa.com:

    • sms.alert@visa.com/VISA. (Card Blocked) Alert. For more information please
      call 1-877-269-XXXX.

Although Home Building or its business partners may ask for personal information to confirm identification such as the cardholder’s name, date of birth, and/or last four digits of a social security number, we will NEVER ask for CVV2 or a PIN.

You should remain alert to any type of communication not initiated by you that requests personal information.

Here’s how to protect yourself:

  • Never provide personal financial information, including your Social Security number, account numbers or passwords, over the phone or the Internet if you did not initiate the contact.
  • Never click on the link provided in an e-mail you believe is fraudulent. It may contain a virus that can contaminate your computer.
  • Do not be intimidated by an e-mail or caller who suggests dire consequences if you do not immediately provide or verify financial information.
  • If you believe the contact is legitimate, go to the company’s Web site by typing in the site address directly or using a page you have previously book marked, instead of a link provided in the e-mail.
  • If you fall victim to an attack, act immediately to protect yourself. Alert your financial institution. Notify credit bureau fraud units. Monitor your credit files and account statements closely.
  • Report suspicious e-mails or calls to the Federal Trade Commission through the Internet at http://www.ftc.gov/idtheft, or by calling 1-877-IDTHEFT.

For more infomation, see our page on Identity Theft.