Have you ever received a call from your own phone number or a number that looked a lot like yours? That’s spoofing. Spammers make it look like they’re calling from a familiar number, and they may even look like they’re calling from right here at Grow Financial so you are more likely to answer.

In most cases, the caller will identify themselves as a team member and maybe even as someone who works in our fraud prevention department. They will make the call sound urgent and may even threaten to turn your card off. The intention is to make you drop your guard and give them your personally identifiable information.

Beware because it’s a scam! Financial institutions, credit card companies and government agencies like the IRS do not typically call you asking for your personal information. We will certainly never ask you to give us your PIN or online banking password. If you’re unsure about a call from us, the best way to protect yourself is to call back directly using the number on your statement, the back of your card or our website.

If you feel you have been the victim of one of these spoof calls, please notify us immediately by calling 800.839.6328.

How Can You Protect Yourself?

• Go with your gut. If the call seems odd or suspicious, don’t give out any information.
• Use our mobile banking and CardManager apps to set up account monitoring alerts and check your history for unauthorized activity.*
• Don’t use public Wi-Fi to check your bank accounts.
• Use strong passwords and try to change them frequently.

You can find more information about fraudulent activity and how to protect yourself here.

*Additional data charges may apply when using apps. Please see your wireless carrier for more information.

---

Posted In:

• Security Education