Hiway occasionally receives reports of spoofed calls originating from our local number 651.291.1515, our toll-free number 800.899.5626 and others. The caller claims to be someone from Hiway Credit Union and asks for information such as Social Security number, online banking username and password or debit/credit card numbers or PIN.
Call Spoofing, or Caller ID Spoofing is when a caller fakes the Caller ID details that appear on your phone, making the call appear like it is from a different number, often a legitimate business, such as a bank or credit union. Scammers use this technique to trick their victims into revealing personal information which they can then utilize to commit fraud.
In addition to call spoofing, you may also receive text messages that claim to be from a Hiway representative. Please be aware that Hiway does not text members to verify account activity.
How You Can Protect Yourself
Please note that a real Hiway representative will never ask you for detailed account numbers or online banking credentials during an unsolicited call or text message. Providing your online banking credentials could give fraudsters the ability to move your money elsewhere. Here are some other helpful tips to protect yourself:
- Never provide your Online Banking password, Online Banking Secure Access Code or debit/credit card PIN to a caller.
- Occasionally, Hiway representatives may reach out to you with a special offer, but will never ask you to provide any of the above information.
- If you receive a call from someone claiming to be from Hiway and are suspicious of the nature of the call, PLEASE HANG UP AND CALL US BACK at 651.291.1515 or 800.899.5626.
You can also follow some general tips from the FCC to avoid spoofing scams.
Best Practices for Secure Online Banking
- Create a custom Login ID instead of using your member number to log in.
- Change your password regularly.
- Don't use your online banking password for other services.
Questions?
Remember, we’re here to help. If you suspect you may be the victim of fraud, or if you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us.