Latest Credit Union Scams in Chattanooga & How to Protect Your Money

At Trust Federal Credit Union, our members are at the heart of everything we do. Unfortunately, scammers know this too, and they’re getting more creative by the day. Whether it’s through phone calls, text messages, or social media, fraudsters are looking for ways to trick you into handing over money or sensitive information.

 

Below are the most common scams we’re seeing right now, including some happening here in the Chattanooga area, and tips on how to protect yourself.

 

1. Caller ID Spoofing (Vishing Impersonation)

Scammers make phone calls that look like they’re coming from your credit union or a government agency. They’ll claim there’s suspicious activity on your account or that you owe fines and try to pressure you into sharing your PIN, verification codes, or transferring money for “safekeeping.”

Local Note: In Hamilton County, scammers have spoofed numbers to look like the Sheriff’s Office or local courts, threatening arrest if “fines” aren’t paid.

Protect yourself:

  • Hang up and call back using the number on your debit card or our website.

  • Never share verification codes, full Social Security numbers, or passwords over the phone.

 

2. Phishing & Smishing (Fake Emails and Texts)

Fraudsters send emails or texts claiming to be from Trust FCU, alerting you to “account issues” or “suspicious transactions.” They include a link to a fake login page.

Local Note: Local credit unions recently warned members about scam texts containing links to fake online banking pages.

Protect yourself:

  • Don’t click links in unexpected messages.

  • Go directly to our official website or mobile app.

  • Trust FCU will never ask for your PIN or full password via email or text.

 

3. Romance & “Pig Butchering” Scams

These scams involve building trust over time, often through dating apps or social media, then asking for money, crypto, or “investment opportunities.”

Local Note: A Hamilton County man lost more than $250,000 after a long-distance “romance” convinced him to sell his house and send funds.

Protect yourself:

  • Be wary of anyone you’ve only met online who asks for money.

  • Never move or invest funds on someone else’s behalf.

  • Talk to a trusted friend or family member before making large transfers.

 

4. Fake Checks / Overpayment Scams

You receive a check from someone you don’t know (or a “buyer” online) and are told to deposit it and send back part of the money. When the check bounces, you’re on the hook.

Protect yourself:

  • Treat checks from unknown sources as suspicious.

  • Wait until a check fully clears before spending any of it.

 

5. Government or Law-Enforcement Threats

Scammers call pretending to be law enforcement, IRS agents, or court clerks, claiming you missed jury duty, owe back taxes, or have a warrant. They demand immediate payment via wire, cryptocurrency, or gift cards.

Protect yourself:

  • Real agencies will never demand payment by gift card or crypto.

  • Hang up and contact the agency directly using an official website or number.

 

6. AI-Powered Voice & Video Imposters

New technology makes it easy for scammers to mimic real voices. They may call sounding like your loved one or even a Trust FCU staff member asking for urgent help.

Protect yourself:

  • If you get an unusual call from someone you know, hang up and call them back on their regular number.

  • Use a “safe word” with family members for emergencies.

 

What Trust FCU Is Doing to Protect You

We use advanced fraud monitoring and train our staff to spot suspicious activity. If we detect unusual transactions, we may contact you to verify them — but we’ll never pressure you to share your password, PIN, or security codes.

 

What to Do If You Suspect a Scam

  • Don’t respond to suspicious texts, emails, or calls.

  • Call us immediately at 423-870-7610 if something doesn’t feel right.

  • Report incidents through our secure online message center at TrustFCU.com.

  • Monitor your accounts regularly for unauthorized activity.

 

Bottom Line

Fraudsters are clever, but you have something even more powerful: knowledge. By recognizing the warning signs and staying alert, you can protect your money and your peace of mind. Trust FCU is here to help, if you’re ever unsure about a message, call us first at 423-870-7610.

Ashley Resto