Member Services Scam Call - How to Protect Yourself

How the Scam Works

• The "Gary" or "Nicole" AI Robot: Many of these calls are powered by interactive AI voices (commonly introducing themselves as "Gary" or "Nicole") that sound incredibly lifelike. They often use number spoofing to make the call look like it is coming from a local phone number or an established company.
• The Bait: The caller or recording usually claims they can lower your credit card interest rates, help you eliminate unsecured debt, or protect you from a "fraudulent charge" on your account.
• The Trap: To process the deal or verify your identity, they will ask for sensitive information, such as your full credit card number, CVV code, or Social Security number.

What You Should Do

1. Hang up immediately. Do not speak, argue, or try to confront the AI or the representative.
2. Do not press any buttons. If a recording tells you to "press 1 to speak to an agent" or "press 2 to opt-out," do not do it. Pressing buttons alerts the automated system that your number is active and monitored by a real person, which will only increase the volume of scam calls you receive.
3. Never share account details. A legitimate bank or credit union will never call you out of the blue to ask for your pin, CVV code, or full account credentials.
4. Verify independently. If you are worried there is an actual issue with one of your accounts, hang up and call the number printed directly on the back of your credit or debit card.

How to Block and Report the Calls

• Use Carrier and Device Blockers: Turn on spam protection through your mobile provider or use built-in tools like "Silence Unknown Callers" on iPhone or "Call Screening" on Android.
• Report to Authorities: You can register your number on the National Do Not Call Registry and report fraudulent calls directly to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).