Scammers are impersonating credit unions and sending fake “AGCU Alerts” text messages to trick members into giving away personal information. Learn how to spot fraudulent texts, avoid phishing links, and protect your AGCU account from identity theft. If you ever receive a suspicious message, never click links or call unknown numbers—contact AGCU directly at 866-508-AGCU or visit agcu.org
for secure account help.
Cryptocurrency has revolutionized the financial world, offering decentralized and innovative ways to make payments and invest. Unfortunately, its rapid growth has also attracted scammers who prey on confusion about how crypto works. Here’s what you need to know about cryptocurrency — and how to avoid common scams.
Scammers use familiar tricks — only now, they demand payment in cryptocurrency. Some common types include:
One of the biggest red flags is when someone reaches out to you unexpectedly—whether it’s through a phone call, text, email, or social media message—offering a “can’t miss” crypto opportunity. Legitimate investment professionals rarely cold-call or direct message strangers about investment opportunities. If you didn’t ask for the contact, you should immediately be skeptical. Scammers use this tactic because they know surprise and urgency make people drop their guard. Always remember: if someone you don’t know is trying to sell you crypto or asks you to send money, it’s a scam.
Crypto markets are extremely volatile, with values rising and falling drastically in short periods. Because of this, no one can legitimately guarantee profits. If you see phrases like “zero risk,” “guaranteed double your money,” or “make $5,000 in a week,” it’s a scam. Scammers exploit the excitement around quick money and prey on the fear of missing out (FOMO). A real investment advisor will explain both risks and rewards. Any promise that sounds “too good to be true” always is.
When a person or platform cannot provide clear information about their company, team, location, or licenses, consider it a major warning sign. Scammers thrive on anonymity and vague promises. If you can’t easily verify who they are, how their system works, or where their business is registered, you are likely dealing with fraud. Real investment firms will be registered with regulators, have professional websites with verifiable information, and willingly answer your questions. If their answers are evasive or overly technical to confuse you, walk away.
Another red flag is when someone tries to rush you into making an investment decision. Scammers will say things like “This is a once-in-a-lifetime chance,” “You must act now,” or “Spots are limited.” They create artificial urgency so you don’t have time to think critically or do research. Remember: crypto will still be there tomorrow. A legitimate opportunity does not require you to act within minutes or hours. If you feel pressured, that’s a sign you should slow down and double-check before taking any action.
Be cautious of anyone asking for payments before you can access supposed “profits” or “services.” Scammers often ask for fees in cryptocurrency or even gift cards—because these payment methods are almost impossible to reverse. They may claim you need to pay a “release fee,” “tax,” or “processing charge” before withdrawing your funds. In reality, once you send money, it’s gone. Legitimate financial institutions and exchanges do not operate this way. If someone wants money up front to unlock your own investment, it’s a scam.
Finally, always check whether the platform or exchange is registered with financial regulators like the SEC, FINRA, or your country’s equivalent. Scammers frequently create slick-looking websites that appear professional, but they operate without licenses or oversight. These platforms may let you “deposit” and even show fake balances, but when you try to withdraw your money, you’ll find you can’t. Only use well-known, regulated platforms for buying, selling, and storing cryptocurrency. Doing otherwise puts your money directly in the hands of criminals.
Cryptocurrency is exciting, but it also comes with risks. Protect yourself by knowing the warning signs of scams. And remember: if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
At AGCU, we’re here to help you make safe financial choices. If you ever receive a suspicious request or feel pressured to send money, pause — and call us at 866-508-AGCU or email info@agcu.org before taking action.
AGCU is committed to serving your financial needs while ensuring the safety and reliability of your funds. To better protect your account and align with industry best practices, we’re updating our Funds Availability Policy for check deposits made at ATMs. Checks deposited at ATMs will be subject to a standard 2-business-day hold. However, Treasury and cashier’s checks will be available the next business day, per federal regulations.
We understand this policy change may raise questions, so we’ve outlined key details below to help you understand why this adjustment is necessary and how it benefits you.
When you deposit a check at an ATM, the funds are credited to your account immediately; however, this does not mean they are immediately available for withdrawal or use. A funds availability hold delays access to the deposited amount until the check can be reviewed and validated.
Placing a temporary hold on check deposits serves several important purposes:
Here’s a breakdown of our updated policy:
To check your available balance at any time:
We understand that unexpected financial needs can arise. If you need access to funds before the hold period ends, please reach out to a Member Care representative. In some cases, we may be able to expedite the availability of funds.
Here are a few tips to help you plan deposits and access funds more efficiently:
AGCU is committed to providing secure, accessible, and faith-centered financial solutions. Our Funds Availability Policy ensures your deposits are handled responsibly, protecting you and your account from potential risks.
For more details about our updated policy, feel free to review your account documents or speak with an AGCU representative.
Much more than a catchphrase, our tagline is our passion, our reason why we do what we do. This is the impact of your membership with AGCU. Learn More About Banking with a Purpose
AGCU is rolling out new, more secure procedures for requesting ACH and Wire transfers starting October 1, 2024. To enhance security and protect members from fraud, all transfer requests must now be submitted through AGCU’s Online Banking platform. This change eliminates the risks associated with emailing sensitive information. Members who don’t have access to Online Banking will need to follow additional security steps for email requests. AGCU encourages members to sign up for Online Banking for a safer, more convenient experience. In-person requests are still available at AGCU branches.
Wire transfer scams can involve unexpected requests for money through email, phone call, or message. Scammers may pressure you to send money because it’s easy for them to take your money and disappear. Once the money is gone, it’s unlikely you’ll be able to get it back. Learn how to identify and protect yourself from these scammers
If you just got overpaid for an item you’re selling online, you may be caught in an overpayment scam.
If you’ve ever received a suspicious call demanding immediate payment for a debt you don’t recognize, you’re not alone. Debt collection scams are on the rise, and criminals are getting more sophisticated in how they target consumers.
Learning how to spot a debt collection scam can protect you — and your wallet — from serious financial harm. Here’s what to know, and how AGCU can help keep your finances safe.
A debt collection scam happens when a fake collector pretends to be from a legitimate agency and pressures you into paying money you don’t owe. These collection scams often involve threats, urgent language, or requests for payment via unusual methods like gift cards, wire transfers, or prepaid debit cards.
Some scammers even impersonate real companies, making it harder to tell if the communication is legitimate. You may have heard of a Credit Collection Services scam, where fraudsters pose as actual agencies to sound more convincing.
Watch for these warning signs that a debt collection scam may be in play:
High-pressure tactics: Demands to pay immediately or face arrest/legal action.
Missing documentation: Legitimate debt collectors are required to provide a written validation notice.
Unfamiliar debts: If the debt doesn’t sound right, it’s worth investigating.
Untraceable payment methods: Asking for payment via wire transfer, prepaid card, or cryptocurrency is a red flag.
Refusal to give details: Real collectors will identify their company and provide contact information.
If you’re contacted by someone claiming you owe a debt, follow these steps before sending any money:
Ask for written validation of the debt. Legit collectors must send this by law.
Verify the debt by checking your records and contacting your original creditor.
Don’t give personal info (like your SSN or banking info) unless you’re 100% sure the collector is legitimate.
Report suspicious activity to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
Still unsure? AGCU members can always contact us for help verifying suspicious financial communications.
If you believe you’ve fallen victim to a credit collection services scam or any kind of debt collection scam, don’t panic — act fast:
File a report with the FTC and your state attorney general.
Place a fraud alert on your credit report through one of the major credit bureaus.
Monitor your accounts for unauthorized activity.
Contact AGCU so we can help protect your accounts and walk you through next steps.
At AGCU, your financial safety is our priority. We provide fraud protection tools, secure account access, and friendly support when you need help. Whether you’re dealing with collection scams or just want to know how to spot a suspicious email or call, our team is here for you.
Pro tip: Keep your contact information up to date with AGCU so we can reach you quickly if there’s an issue with your account.
Scammers are smart, but you’re smarter. Knowing the signs of debt collection scams — and taking steps to verify any contact you receive — can save you from costly mistakes.
If you ever feel unsure, reach out to AGCU. We’re happy to review the situation and help you sort fact from fraud.
Much more than a catchphrase, our tagline is our passion, our reason why we do what we do. This is the impact of your membership with AGCU.
Learn More About Banking with a Purpose
