Part of giving you a financial advantage is ensuring your information stays safe. That’s why we’re adding a new layer of account security with the introduction of Fraud Text Alerts this month.

 

How Fraud Text Alerts Work

 

If we identify suspicious activity on your UCU ATM, debit, or credit card, we may send you a text message to verify the transaction. If we can’t identify your contact number as a mobile number, you may receive a call. When you receive a text from UCU, you will have the option to confirm that you made the purchase or inform us that your card is being used fraudulently:

 

Reply “Yes” if the transaction is valid

 

OR

 

Reply “No” to block the unauthorized transaction

 

If you reply “No,” the card will be blocked from further transactions and we ask you contact us at 800.UCU.4510 to ensure a resolution.

 

Next Steps

 

To ensure you will receive Fraud Text Alerts from UCU, please make sure we have your most up-to-date mobile phone number on file. You can update your phone number via digital banking.

 

Mobile Banking

 

  • Click ‘More’ from the bottom menu and then ‘Settings’
  • Select ‘Profile’
  • Update your email and phone number within the 'Profile' section

 

Online Banking
 

  • Click your profile photo
  • Select 'Profile'
  • Update your email and phone number within the 'Profile' section

Your account safety is our main priority, and with the introduction of Fraud Text Alerts, you’ll always have peace of mind!

 

Why would I receive a text message or phone call?

We are working 24/7 to protect your card. If the activity appears suspicious, you may receive a text message or phone call from our Card Fraud Prevention team.
 

If I receive a text or call, will the purchase still go through?

If you receive a text or call, that means your purchase was stopped. If you let us know you were trying to make the purchase, then you’ll be able to attempt making the purchase after we’ve confirmed with you it is legitimate.
 

How long after I confirm it’s me can I use my card?

Once the purchase is confirmed, you should be able to make the purchase again within less than a minute.
 

What if I do not confirm the purchase or indicate it’s not me?

Your card will be blocked and we ask you to call us at 800.UCU.4510 so we can assist you in obtaining a new card and making sure no other transactions posted to your account.
 

What will text message look like?

Here are the possible SMS conversations. NOTE: “Sample FCU” will be replaced with “UCU”.

Made the Purchase

Image of iPhone showing sample text alert for approving a purchase

Did Not Make the Purchase

Image of iPhone showing sample text alert for denying a purchase

Wants to Stop Text Alerts

Image of iPhone showing sample text alert and how to stop further alerts

Needs Help

Image of iPhone showing sample text alert and how to get help

How will I know this is a legitimate text message from UCU?

There are a few things that you will want to take note of.

You should see “UCU” at the beginning of the first text message.

The number in the text message should be 888.241.2440.

We will NEVER ask you to send us any personal information including your card number, phone number, social security number, or PIN via text message.
 

From what phone number or short code will the text come from?

Unfortunately for security purposes we are unable to disclose that information. If in doubt, please call us directly at 800.UCU.4510.
 

What if I opted out accidentally or decide afterwards that this is a good thing to continue?

If you want to opt back in, please call us at 800.UCU.4510 and one of our team members can assist you.
 

Will the text message be in addition to a phone call?

If you receive a text message and you do not respond within 5 minutes, you may receive a phone call.
 

What are the hours for text messages?

Text messages can be initiated 24 hours a day. An after hours phone number will be provided in the event you would like to contact us immediately.
 

If I receive a phone call, what are the hours for calls?

Call will only be made to your phone between 8am and 9pm, based on your local time zone.

Concerned you're a victim of fraud?

Call us at 800.UCU.4510 to report it immediately! We'll review your account with you and assist with any security questions.

More Security Resources:

Avoiding Gift Card Scams
We are here to help you recognize and avoid potential scams.
Online & Browser Protection
Going online? Be aware of scams to get your account information.