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Beware of Fake Customer Service Calls

Published: May 1, 2025

Beware of Fake Customer Service Calls

Scammers are constantly evolving their tactics—and one of the most alarming trends we’re seeing is fraudsters impersonating credit card support or financial institution staff over the phone.

These scams can catch even the most vigilant person off guard. The caller may sound professional, reference recent transactions, or even display your financial institution’s name on caller ID. But what they really want is access to your credit card number, account details, or online banking credentials.

How the Scam Works

You receive a call—sometimes automated, sometimes live.

The person on the line says they’re calling from:

  • “USSFCU Visa Services”

  • “Your financial institution’s fraud department”

  • Or simply “Card Services” or “Visa Security”

They claim there’s been suspicious activity or a charge that needs to be verified. They may ask you to:

  • Confirm your full credit card number

  • Provide your CVV, PIN, or online banking login

  • Read back a verification code they just sent you

  • Act quickly to prevent your account from being frozen

The pressure is real—and that’s exactly what they want.

Don’t Take the Bait

Even if the call seems legitimate, remember this:

USSFCU will NEVER:

  • Call to ask you for your full credit card number over the phone

  • Request your CVV, PIN, or online banking password

  • Send you a code and ask you to read it back

  • Threaten immediate account suspension for not complying

If anything about the call feels off, it probably is.

What to Do If You Get a Suspicious Call

  • Hang up immediately. You’re not being rude—you’re protecting yourself.

  • Do not share any sensitive information.

  • Call us directly at 800.374.2758 to confirm whether there’s any issue with your account.

Protect Yourself with Card Controls

Want added peace of mind? You can instantly freeze your card, set alerts, and monitor transactions anytime through Card Controls in myUSSFCU Online and Mobile Banking.

Card Controls let you:

  • Turn your card on or off instantly

  • Get real-time notifications on transactions

  • Set spending limits to keep tighter control

Ready to Get More Out of Your Smart Rewards Visa®?

Join us for a special member webinar:

Points & Perks: Rewarding Ways to Use Your Visa®

Wednesday, May 7 | 6:00 PM ET

We’ll walk through:

  • Earning 5x points during our seasonal promotion

  • Unlocking 25,000 bonus points as a new cardholder

  • Tips for redeeming your points for maximum value

  • Built-in features that help keep your card secure

Register now

Fraudsters are clever—but you’re smarter.

If a call feels suspicious, don’t second-guess yourself. Hang up, take a breath, and call us directly. We’re here to help you stay secure, informed, and confident every step of the way.

Article content is provided for information purposes only.

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Members' Voice Testimonials

This credit union is the best, I love the customer service and you can't beat the interest rates. I'm happy to be a member of this great credit union.

- James · Locust Grove, GA

The branch manager introduced herself and was extremely helpful. She stated that if there is anything we ever need to please let her know. Very positive experience!

- Larry · Cumberland, MD

Greta was absolutely amazing - as always. She makes me and my parents feel valued and supported. We are forever grateful. [The Credit Union] has been hugely supportive over many years. And we feel known and cared for.

- Eliza · Washington, DC

Long as I have been with the credit union, I haven't had any problems. I also like the protection on my account.

- Charles · Upper Marlboro, MD

My overall experience at the credit union was exceptional. The staff was hospitable offering water, my service was timely and professional and the office was well lit and clean.

- Denise · Washington, DC

As a member for more than 40 years, i have always had great service from the USSFCU and know that they stand behind their great reputation.

- David · Silver Spring, MD

A top rate Credit Union, [I'm] privileged to be part of! Thank you for all you do for our family! USSFCU Credit Union was able to resolve our financial situation - vehicle, personal loans, customer service/recommendations, within 6 months. We belonged to another credit union for over 20 years, with results not even close to comparison. We switched ...

- Manuel · Bowie, MD

Your people and products are amazing. The recent [online banking] overhaul is phenomenal. [I've] been electronic banking since Tele action phone banking - paying bills with my push button landline decades ago. USSFCU is light years ahead of everyone else in terms of ease of use and client experience!

- Misty · Brookings, OR

I have been a member for more than 30 years. I no longer reside in the DC area but continue to bank with USSFCU because of the ease and the customer service.

- Tamra · Denver, CO

I have been a member for over 50 years, and I have always gotten good service with loans, when I had to have service at a branch, and when I needed to have money sent to me from my savings account. The personnel have always been friendly and treated me with respect.

- John · Fort Washington, MD

I especially appreciate being able to quickly speak with someone (not a robot) and that person has always been knowledgeable and helpful.

- Bernard · Richmond, VA

Excellent customer service streamlined and transparent process. The representatives are efficient, knowledgeable, and understanding of the type of loans offered by Credit Union.

- Erwin · Ellicott City, MD

The USSFCU behaves as a credit union ought to behave. The staff works with and for the members, not for a corporate board. Interest rates for a car loan, a home improvement loan, and a mortgage are low and terms are transparent.

- Ruth · Takoma Park, MD

Staff are courteous and friendly to work with. Very knowledgeable about services and products offered or available. Excellent follow-up with customers.

- Jacquelyn · Sanford, FL

I have appreciated USSFCU services for many years since I left my work on Capitol Hill. I have appreciated the occasional webinars on purchasing a home or retirement planning.

- Jamie · Washington, DC

I have been a member since 2006, and have always appreciated the customer service response to any concern or query. In addition, as I have traveled extensively, USSFCU has provided support and access.

- Kathleen · Ukiah, CA

I've had a credit union account for decades, even though I no longer work on Capitol Hill. I now have two accounts. I've been able to do all of our banking remotely, by app or by phone.

- Richard · Washington, DC

I have been a USSFCU member for almost 20 years. There is nowhere else I want my money to be. I always receive excellent service.

- Nicole · Alexandria, VA

I deeply appreciate the stellar service, the proficiency, the professionalism, and the kindness. I am truly honored and grateful to bank with a financial institution that treats customers like family.

- Angela · Alexandria, VA

Read More testimonials.