Fraud – What to do

Hopefully you’ve never had to experience fraudulent activity on one of your accounts but if you have you’ll understand our passionate disdain for fraudsters. Below you’ll find ways to prevent, monitor, and report suspicious activity on your accounts.

Prevention

Knowledge is power. While it seems like the fraudsters are one step ahead of us we are always reading the latest articles and finding stories of the current scams people are reporting on to put you in-the-know.

You can find a list of articles we find helpful in our Blog. Posts are happening as we hear about them so be sure to check back regularly for the newest scams as we find out about them.

Monitor

Be on guard. The more you get the know your account and where transactions are coming from the better. There is no better way to stay on top of it then with your smartphone. We’ve added new ways to track your checking account, your credit cards, and your credit report.

Mobile BranchMobile branch icon
24×7 access to your account information.  See transaction history, transfer money, and so much more! In your APP store, search “South Bay Credit Union” or click here for iPhone or Android.

Card Controls
The newest feature now available in your Mobile Branch app. Turn your debit and/or credit card ON and OFF right from your smartphone.  With the ability to check transactions and immediately contact the fraud department (if fraudulant activity is suspected),  your card safety has never been easier or more convenient.

Credit Score Monitoring – powered by Savvy Money
Similar to Credit Karma, Savvy Money monitors your credit portfolio and teaches you ways to improve your credit rating. Dispute fraudulent credit postings right from Savvy Money. While you’re there, check out the lowest rate offers available to you. Look for your credit score in It’s Me 24/7 home banking, under My Accounts, View- credit score, or in your Mobile Branch APP, in the My Accounts menu under Credit Score.

E-Alerts
When you sign up for ATM/debit card alerts, it’s easy to stay informed about activity on your card. You can set up alerts through It’s Me 247 or you can find it under your Info Center in your Mobile app.

Report

Noooooooo! We’re sorry this happened but we’re here to help. If you’ve been a victim of fraud there a few ways to go about reporting activity.

Step 1. Block your Debit or Credit card using Card controls immediately

Step 2. Contact us

There are multiple ways to dispute a fraud on your account. We recommend going through OmniShield and/or the lost or stolen department first but you are always free to reach out to us with any questions.

Debit and Credit Card Lost or Stolen
310-374-3436 during business hours
800-528-2273 after hours/toll-free
812-647-9794 (international only)

Debit and Credit Card OmniShield/Member Security
If your card has been blocked by our security
dept please call 800-889-5280

Dispute Processing
800-808-6402

Email: SBCU@southbaycu.com

Member Services Call Center
Call or Text  310-374-3436
Monday – Friday 7:00am – 5:00pm
Live Chat during call center hours

CU*Talk (automated phone teller)
855-250-2606
24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Fax Number
424-275-4381

Step 3. File a dispute

Dispute forms will need to be submitted for all fraudulent activity reports filed. We recommend that you include any receipts or proof of fraud such as the time, and your location during the charges. The more information provided the quicker we can stop the fraudsters and restore your account.

Dispute Forms:

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Am I responsible for the fraudulent charges?
A: No, if the information provided shows that the transactions are indeed fraudulent then all charges and fee’s associated with the fraudulent transactions will be refunded to the account.

Q: How long does it take to get my money back?
A: Typically 7-10 business days after the paperwork has been completed but exceptions can be made case by case and depending on the dollar amount.

Q: Should I file a police report?
A: We will always recommend that you file a police report for all fraudulent activity but in some cases, it isn’t required.

Q: Should I close my account?
A: Closing your account would only be necessary if there has been Identity theft, in most cases we can shut off the source of the fraud and your account will be secure again but each fraud case is different.

Q: How long do I have to report suspected fraud on my account?
A: You have 30 days from the date of the transaction to file a dispute

If you suspect identity theft, find out more here