Messages Stating "Suspended Services" are a Scam
August 22, 2008

Dear Members,

In the past few days, thousands of Ohioans have received fraudulent "phishing" messages via text, email and voicemail stating that their credit union services have been suspended. While we have no indication that Cincinnati Police Federal Credit Union members have received these messages, we want to make you aware of this latest scam so that you can recognize these fraudulent attempts and protect yourself against them.

The fraudulent messages appear to be sent by a credit union or other financial institution. In the message, members are told that their credit union services have been suspended. They are told to call a long-distance phone number [some have indicated an area code of (305) which is a South Florida area code]. Once the call is placed, an automated message prompts the caller to enter their credit or debit card numbers along with their PINs. If you receive any text, email or voicemail message that is similar to this format, we urge you not to call the number indicated in the message. Instead, call us directly at (513)352-3568 to report the incident.

Phishing is an attempt to trick you into revealing your sensitive information. The fraudsters will produce emails, voice mails and even websites that on the surface may appear to be from a legitimate organization or trusted source. As we stated above, in this case the messages appear to be from a credit union or other financial institution.

The fraudulent phishing messages began on Tuesday and were originally concentrated in Central Ohio, but other messages have been received by consumers scattered throughout the state. Again, the purpose of this letter is to make you aware of this latest phishing scam. We would also like to remind you that Cincinnati Police Federal Credit Union employees will never contact you and ask for your personal information. If you are suspicious of any communication that appears to be from Cincinnati Police Federal Credit Union, we urge you to call us. As the old saying goes, it is far better to be safe than sorry.

Sincerely,

Tina Wocher
President