Navy Federal scams: Everything you need to know

What is a Navy Federal scam?

A Navy Federal scam is an attempt to steal money or sensitive personal data from a Navy Federal Credit Union member. Navy Federal Credit Union was established with the specific mission of serving the financial needs of U.S. military personnel. Over time, its membership expanded to include all branches of the armed forces, veterans, and their families. Because of this close connection to the military, the credit union has a large presence in military towns like Norfolk, Pensacola, and San Diego.

How Navy Federal scams work

Navy Federal scams typically involve different tactics, from phishing to Instagram scams, but they all have one common goal: tricking you into giving away money or data. Scammers will pressure you into taking specific dangerous actions, including:

• Sending money via wire transfers or payment apps.
• Sharing bank account info, including passwords, account numbers, and answers to security questions.
• Divulging sensitive personal data, like your social security number, birthday, and home address, which could expose you to identity theft.

Vishing scams

Vishing, or voice phishing, is one of the most common Navy Federal scams. Someone claiming to be a Navy Federal customer service representative will call you and explain that they have noticed some suspicious activity on your account. To protect yourself, the scammer will encourage you to review some transactions and verify your information. This financial scam can initially seem quite convincing. The phishers often call from a local area code and may even appear on caller ID as “Navy Federal.” The scammers often use personal data, like the zip code of your home address, to convince you that they are actually Navy Federal representatives. However, they likely got that information from a data breach.

The scammer will press you for sensitive information far beyond what Navy Federal needs for identity verification, like your driver’s license number. They may even suggest you authorize a new transaction via Apple Pay or Cash App to “test” whether your account has been compromised.

Don’t take the bait! If you are unsure whether an individual is actually from Navy Federal Credit Union, hang up and call the bank directly.

Email phishing scams

In email phishing scams, you may receive an email with Navy Federal Credit Union branding. The email encourages you to click a link or download an attachment. However, if you proceed, you might download malware or reveal personal information.

Phishing emails may contain a trojan, a form of malware that can steal your passwords, record your actions, or modify your computer. Email links may also redirect you to fake websites to convince you to share bank account login credentials and other sensitive information.

How to spot a Navy Federal scam

Avoid becoming a victim by learning how to spot the scam:

• Be wary of pressure tactics: Scammers stress the urgency to discourage you from thinking through a situation. They may claim that your account is in danger or that they will have to sleep on the street if you don’t help them get a hotel room. Take a step back, remain calm, and look for red flags.
• Don’t trust someone you don’t know: If someone approaches you in person or online, be on your guard. Don’t divulge sensitive information, agree to transfer money, or give them access to your phone.
• Verify identities: Even if someone seems like a Navy Federal Credit Union representative, verify their identity before sharing any information. Contact Navy Federal directly to confirm whether communications are legitimate.
• Avoid suspicious links and attachments: Log into your Navy Federal accounts directly instead of clicking links or downloading attachments.
• Do not engage with texts: Navy Federal will never reach out to members asking for personal information via a text message. If you think you may have been a victim, you can report unauthorized transactions online.

How to report a Navy Federal scam if you’ve become a victim

If you’ve become a victim, report the Navy Federal scam immediately:

1. 1.Forward phishing emails to phishalert@navyfederal.org.
2. 2.Report vishing, suspicious texts, and social media messages by sending an email to reportabuse@navyfederal.org. Include the date, time, sender number, and the requested information.
3. 3.Call the Navy Federal fraud number: 1-888-842-6328.

Report Navy Federal fraud as soon as it happens to protect other customers.

How to avoid a Navy Federal scam

You can avoid a Navy Federal scam with a few financial safety tips:

• Check links: Before you click a link in an email, use NordVPN’s link checker to verify it is safe.
• Contact Navy Federal directly: Avoid interacting with suspicious emails, calls, or texts. It is always a good idea to contact Navy Federal through its official phone number, website, or online banking app.
• Use a VPN: Virtual private networks (VPNs) encrypt your online traffic and mask your IP address, which makes you safer and more private online. If you choose NordVPN, you may also benefit from its extra features, such as Threat Protection Pro, which helps keep you safe from phishing.
• Use strong passwords: Protect your accounts by choosing strong, hard-to-guess passwords and changing them frequently.
• Enable two-factor authentication: Two-factor authentication, also known as 2FA, requires an additional code to log into an account. When you enable 2FA, your Navy Federal account is still protected, even if your password has been compromised.