Text Message Scams: Impersonating Visions

It’s more common than you’d think. In text messages, scammers often impersonate Visions, Visa®, and other organizations in order to access personal information, bank accounts, credit cards, and more. It’s called “smishing.” And they’re targeting consumers just like you.

The good news is, by being aware of their tactics and staying vigilant, you can protect yourself and your accounts against this type of fraud.

Examples of Text Message Scams

Visions members have experienced and reported the following scams. Don’t let this happen to you.

Example 1

  1. A text message arrives from someone claiming to be Visions. The text message warns that the member’s account is being locked and requires the members attention immediately.
  2. The member clicks a link and is directed to a spoofed (fake) Visions webpage and enters their login information.
  3. The fraudster uses the member’s username and password to enter Visions’ legitimate website, then calls or texts the member asking for the Secure Access Code to complete the login.

Example 2

  1. A text message arrives from someone claiming to be Visions. The text message asks to confirm charges or verify an unauthorized transaction.
  2. The member calls the phone number listed on the text message to decline the charges.
  3. Over the phone, the member is asked to provide account information or a Secure Access code to verify their identity. 

Preventing Fraud

In the examples above, fraud could have been prevented. 

Here’s what you should do when you receive a text message or phone call claiming to be from Visions:

  • Avoid urgency. Do not respond or click on any links.
  • Verify the source. For Visions accounts, here are the only numbers that will send text messages about transaction verification or payment reminders:
    • 23618 – Fraud Monitoring for Visions debit and credit cards
    • 83281 – Visions loan payment reminders
    • 86434 – Digital banking login and transaction verification
    • 833-845-2800 – Zelle® transaction verification
    • 777208430004 – Bill Pay transaction verification
  • Call our Contact Center. Our representatives at 800.242.2120 will help you verify the text message and can discuss your options if your accounts have been compromised.

For additional fraud prevention, we recommend enrolling in digital banking. Our online tools and resources can help you monitor your accounts for unauthorized transactions or fraudulent activity. Learn more about digital banking.

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