Many people have been tricked into divulging their personal information by thieves posing as legitimate companies or government agencies. These criminals send emails or letters that appear to be from your Credit Union or other trusted sources.
The emails often stress the urgency of "updating" your personal information such as credit card numbers, checking account information, Social Security numbers, passwords, PINs, mother's maiden name, and other sensitive data. The messages and websites are often disguised with authentic-looking logos.
BrightStar will never ask for your personal account information by email, letter, or phone.
The only place online where we ask for this information is on our secure website, www.bscu.org. If you receive a message "phishing" for your Credit Union account information — don't bite. Call us at 954-486-2728 to verify any suspicious communication.
How to Protect Yourself
- Be skeptical of urgent requests. Any email with urgent requests for personal financial information should be a red flag. Never enter your information into an online form or pop-up window.
- Don't click links in suspicious emails. Instead, call the Credit Union directly or type the website address into your browser yourself.
- Don't fill out forms in emails. Only communicate sensitive information via a secure website (https://) or by phone — and only when you initiate the contact.
- Check your statements regularly. Monitor your accounts for any suspicious activity and report it immediately.
- Keep your software updated. Use up-to-date browsers, firewalls, antivirus, and anti-spyware software. Change your passwords regularly.
If You've Been Phished
If you have shared your personal information with a thief, take these steps immediately:
- Contact BrightStar immediately at 954-486-2728 if you shared credit card, debit card, or checking account information. Even if there's been no activity yet, you may need to cancel and reissue.
- Place a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, TransUnion, Experian).
- Notify the police and the Social Security Administration if your SSN was compromised.
Suspect Phishing? Contact BrightStar
If you receive a suspicious message claiming to be from BrightStar, contact us immediately to verify.