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Spoofed Calls, Texts, and Emails: Don’t Trust Appearances

Published: July 29, 2026

Spoofed Calls, Texts, and Emails: Don’t Trust Appearances

Most of us know to be cautious of suspicious emails, unexpected texts, and calls from unfamiliar numbers. But today’s scams do not always look suspicious. Caller ID may display a trusted organization’s name, an email may include familiar branding, and a text may appear to come from a legitimate phone number.

Fraudsters can manipulate these details to make a communication appear to come from USSFCU or another trusted source. This is known as spoofing—and it is often used as part of a phishing or account takeover attempt.

Understanding how these scams work can help you recognize when something is not right and avoid giving a fraudster access to your information or accounts.

How Spoofing Works

Spoofing occurs when a fraudster disguises a call, text, email, or website to make it appear to come from a person or organization you trust.

Common examples include:

  • Caller ID spoofing: A call appears to come from USSFCU or another familiar phone number.
  • Text message spoofing: A message appears to be a fraud alert or account notification from a trusted organization.
  • Email spoofing: The sender name, branding, or email address is designed to look legitimate.
  • Website spoofing: A link leads to a fake website that closely resembles an official login page.

A familiar name, number, logo, or website design does not guarantee that a communication is legitimate.

Spoofing and Phishing Often Work Together

Spoofing is how fraudsters make a communication appear trustworthy. Phishing is the attempt to persuade you to take an action, such as clicking a link, sharing information, or approving a transaction.

For example, you may receive a text that appears to come from USSFCU asking whether you authorized a card purchase. After you respond, someone may call claiming to be a fraud specialist and offer to help secure your account.

The caller may already know basic information about you, making the interaction feel legitimate. They may then ask you to:

  • Provide your online banking password, PIN, or card security code.
  • Read back a one-time verification code.
  • Approve a login or transaction you did not initiate.
  • Enter your credentials on a website provided by text or email.
  • Transfer money to a “safe” account or send money to yourself.

These requests may allow the fraudster to access your account or authorize transactions.

Warning Signs to Watch For

Be cautious when a call, text, or email:

  • Creates urgency or threatens to restrict access to your account.
  • Claims you must act immediately to stop fraud.
  • Asks you to click a link, open an attachment, or call a number provided in the message.
  • Requests login credentials, card details, or a verification code.
  • Asks you to approve activity you did not initiate.
  • Tells you to transfer money to protect it.
  • Uses an unfamiliar or slightly altered email address or website domain.

Do not rely only on spelling, grammar, or professional-looking branding to determine whether a message is legitimate. Fraudulent communications can appear polished and convincing.

Stop and Verify Independently

If you receive a suspicious communication, do not use the contact information or links it provides.

Instead:

  • Stop communicating with the sender or caller.
  • Do not share sensitive information or verification codes.
  • Do not click links, open attachments, or reply to the message.
  • Do not approve activity you did not initiate.
  • Type ussfcu.org directly into your browser or use the official myUSSFCU Mobile Banking app.
  • Contact USSFCU directly at 800.374.2758 or use the number on the back of your card.

USSFCU will never ask for your online banking password, PIN, card security code, or one-time verification code through an unsolicited call, text, or email. We will also never instruct you to move money to another account to keep it safe.

Protect Your Account

Review your account activity regularly through myUSSFCU Online or Mobile Banking. Set up account alerts and use card management tools to quickly freeze or unfreeze your cards when needed.

If you believe you shared sensitive information or your account may be compromised, contact USSFCU immediately at 800.374.2758.

This article is for educational 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.