Scam Alert: Common Online Banking Threats
07/15/2025
Scam Alert: What You Should Know About Common Online Banking Threats
At NW Plus Credit Union, we care deeply about your financial safety. As more of us rely on digital tools for everyday banking, scammers are becoming more sophisticated in targeting online accounts and financial information.
Here are some common banking-related scams that we want you to be aware of:
Phishing Emails & Texts (Smishing)
Scammers often send emails or texts pretending to be from NW Plus or another trusted financial institution. These messages may look legitimate — using our logo, language, or even spoofed email addresses — and ask you to click a link or share your account info. They often use high pressure tactics or alarming language to get you to act before you have a chance to look too closely.
What to do: Never click on suspicious links. If you're unsure, contact us directly through a verified source you've used before.
Fake Online Banking Apps or Websites
Fraudsters sometimes create look-alike websites or mobile apps that mimic real financial institutions, including credit unions like NW Plus. When you attempt to log in like you would on the real site, scammers can copy and steal your credentials.
What to do: Always access online banking through our official app or website, and bookmark frequently visited pages it to avoid mistyping.
Caller ID Spoofing & Phone Scams
You may receive a call that appears to be from NW Plus, asking you to "verify" your account, PIN, or online login. These scammers are skilled and may know personal details to gain your trust.
What to do: NW Plus will never reach out to you and ask for your full password, PIN, or secure access code over the phone. If in doubt, hang up and dial 425-297-1000 to call us directly.
Fraudulent Check Deposits & Mobile Deposit Scams
Some scams involve depositing fake checks through mobile banking, then asking you to send part of the money back, often as a refund or payment for a “job.” When the check bounces, you're left responsible for the full amount.
What to do: Be cautious if someone sends you a check and asks you to return part of the funds. If it feels off, it probably is.
Account Takeover Attempts
Cybercriminals try to gain access to your online banking through stolen passwords or leaked data from other sites. Once in, they can transfer money or change your security settings.
What to do: Use strong, unique passwords for your online banking. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA), or MFA (Multifactor Authentication) when available. Monitor your account regularly for suspicious activity.
Mail Theft & Stolen Debit Cards or Statements
Scammers may steal mail to get access to debit cards, statements, or other personal financial documents. This information can be used to open fake accounts or access your existing ones.
What to do: Consider enrolling in paperless eStatements and monitor your debit card usage through the NW Plus mobile app.
Never share your account number, passwords, answers to security questions, or other account information. We will never ask you for this type of information when we call or email you. If someone claiming to be a NW Plus CU representative asks for sensitive account information over the phone or in an email, end the conversation immediately, and call us at 425.297.1000 or come to one of our branches to report the incident.