Protecting Your Pacific Cascade Credit and Debit Cards While using Gaming Consoles.

Did you know that if you, or your child, have specific gaming consoles they can be used to access the internet to purchase games, download information, and to compete with other people around the world? There is an extra cost to access these applications, and this is where the opportunity for fraud arises.

There are 3 major gaming companies that offer this
type of application.

Nintendo offers Wii and DSi, and both have the ability to access the internet through the gaming console to make purchases. The great thing about Nintendo’s Wii and DSi is that they do not store the card information on the console or the web-site; in order to access the internet through these gaming units you have to enter your card information every time; of course, as with all types of internet access and purchasing, make sure that you are on a secure site and watch for signs of hacking or scams.

Microsoft offers the Xbox and Xbox 360. For the ability to access the internet and make purchases with this gaming console you need to have a Windows Live ID and password, and this has to be entered every time you access the internet where your card information can be saved on the website. As long as no one knows your Windows Live ID and password your card information should remain protected.

Sony PlayStation 3 also offers the ability to go online through the gaming console and purchase or download information such as games. PlayStation 3 also gives the option to store your card information on the console. This information is protected by a password, as is access to the unit itself. Sony strongly recommends that you use different passwords for the console and for internet access, but many times people will use the same password for both. Also, sharing games that have been purchased for your PS3 can be done through the internet connection, and according to Sony, this is illegal; this also requires that you share passwords. Sony has observed a fraud trend using this process in which thieves patrol for those who will share games and release passwords, then they find the location of the actual gaming console and steal it; they have access to the console and the card information, and can use it to purchase more products for the PS3 using your card information.

How do you protect yourself?

Of course the safest way to protect yourself is to never store any of your information on the console or the website, but to enter the card information each time you or your child needs to access the internet for gaming purposes. Second, game sharing is illegal, and dangerous, so avoid it at all costs. Third, use different passwords for everything that needs one and change them frequently.

What if I am selling my gaming console or it gets stolen?

First, call the Customer Service line for the company that makes your particular unit and ask them how to remove all information from the console and have them shut down your billing accounts. Secondly, call us at 800-477-3328, and talk to us about blocking your card to keep your accounts protected.

                                    - Justin Bruce, Card Services Rep, PCFCU

This week's arrest of 11 alleged hackers accused of stealing more
than 40 million credit and debit card numbers may be only the "tip
of the iceberg," security experts say.

In the largest identity theft case ever prosecuted
by the US Department of Justice, 11 alleged hackers from around the globe face up to life in prison for hacking nine major US retailers - including TJX. Their crimes include conspiracy, computer intrusion, fraud and identity theft, according to indictments unsealed Tuesday by federal grand juries in Boston, MA and
San Diego, CA.

These indictments "clearly show what we in the intelligence community have known about and talked about for some time -- there is a very mature, multi-billion dollar industry out there when you look below the surface," says Ken Dunham, an expert in malicious code and Director of Global Response at iSight Partners, a global risk management company. "These criminals are only one group -- there are other large-scale criminal operatives dealing with major money."

Three of the defendants are U.S. citizens, one is from Estonia, three are from Ukraine, two are from the People's Republic of China and one is from Belarus. One individual is only known by an alias online, and his place of origin is unknown . 

Pacific Cascade Federal Credit Union Members
PLEASE BE AWARE:
Over the weekend random MULTIPLE FOLKS were called in the Eugene/Springfield area asking them to call because “your Oregon Community Debit Card has been canceled”. Our member’s do not hear the “Oregon Community part…as they are upset at the phone call. Please when you get calls from members today explain to them that it is a scam. If they have given out any of their information we need to get their cards blocked.

Questions please contact admin. Thank you!

Home Repair Scams

by Detective Paul Henninger

Last week, we had our first of many windstorms in the Northwest. At a meeting, I was reminded of a type of criminal who “blows in with the wind”. Beware of the Traveling Contractor! There are many types of roofing scams. I am going to discuss one possible scenario.This fraudster is normally from out of town, following the wind. They will
unexpectedly knock on your door, offering a “free” roof
inspection. They will claim to be a licensed contractor, when
they are not. While on your roof, they may find some minor damage, or cause additional damage. They will provide you with an inflated estimate to fix the damage, yet offer to “fix it for less”. They may ask for a cash advance, so they can buy materials. If they return, they will make sub-standard repairs, if any. You will end up with a hole in your wallet, and the roof. Since they
are not a licensed Oregon contractor, you will never see them or your money again.

TIPS
Contractors operating in Oregon are required to be Licensed, Bonded and Insured. They must be registered with the Oregon Construction Contractors Board.

Oregon Construction Contractors Board Mission Statement:
“The Construction Contractors Board protects the public’s interest relating to improvements to real property. The Board regulates construction contractors and promotes a competitive business environment through education, contractor licensing, dispute resolution, and law enforcement.”

Before using any contractor, contact the Oregon Construction Contractors Board.

• They will be able to tell you if the contractor is licensed, bonded and insured.
• They will tell you if any complaints have been filed against the contractor.
• They investigate unlicensed contractors.
• They investigate consumer complaints against contractors.

Website: www.oregon.gov/CCB/
Email Address: ccb.info@state.or.us
Phone:(503)378-4621 (Salem)

Most licensed contractors are honest and hardworking. But some are not.

• Have a written contract. Read the contract before you sign it.
• Be weary of deposits or paying for materials in advance.
• Do not leave a contractor alone during an inspection, or during repairs.
• If you are able, inspect the repairs prior to making any payment. Beware of Traveling Contractors, even if they are licensed. If things go bad, it may be difficult to locate and contact them.
• Do not let a stranger in your home, or on your roof. Get their information, check them out with the contractor’s board, and then invite them back to do an inspection if they are a licensed contractor without complaints.
• If they try to pressure you into making an immediate inspection by stating “I can only offer you a deal today”; do not use them! For additional Fraud Tips visit the Salem Police Department’s website address at www.cityofsalem.net/departments/police.