Strengthening Our Fight Against Fraud: Congratulating Shelby, Our New Fraud Specialist
At Montana Credit Union, fraud prevention and protecting our members are always top priorities. As technology advances and scams become more sophisticated, we’re taking proactive steps to ensure our members’ money and information stay safe.
To help us do just that, we’ve expanded our Fraud Department with the addition of a BRAND NEW Fraud Specialist role, further strengthening our commitment to identifying, preventing, and responding to fraud.
Please join us in congratulating Shelby, who officially stepped into this new role last month!
This position allows Montana Credit Union to dedicate even more time and resources to detecting unusual account activity, spotting emerging fraud trends, and helping educate both our staff and members on how to avoid scams.
We recently connected with Shelby to learn more about her background, what this new position means for our members, and what she’s discovered so far in the fight against fraud. Read more about her insights below.
Q&A with Shelby, Fraud Prevention Specialist
What is your employment history with Montana Credit Union? How long have you been in your new position?
I’ve been with Montana Credit Union for a little over three years. I started at the front desk as the Member Relations Guide, then moved to Member Services for around two years. I officially started as Fraud Specialist about a month ago.
Tell us about your new role as Fraud Specialist. What does your day-to-day look like?
I review unusual transactions in our members’ accounts to watch for signs of fraud. New payment methods, changes in spending habits—anything that differs from a person’s normal routine—could indicate that they are a victim of a scam. I research these items, talk with the members, and gather enough information to determine if we need to take further steps to protect our members.
How will this new position help Montana Credit Union grow and better serve our members?
Combating fraud means both detecting and stopping it when it occurs and preventing it from happening in the first place. This new position will allow Montana Credit Union more time and resources to detect new and emerging trends in fraud. We can use this information to more effectively educate our members and staff about spotting and avoiding scams.
What is something you’ve learned that you didn’t expect after stepping into this role?
I’ve been able to see the scope of fraud and how broadly it affects everyone. There is no demographic that is the primary target for fraud. Scammers want to cast as wide a net as possible. You can’t assume that you’re safe from scams because of your age group, location, or lack of social media use. That’s why protecting your personal information is so important.
What’s one simple thing members can do to help protect themselves from fraud?
Never be afraid to slow down and get a second opinion if you have a bad feeling about a situation. Scammers try to isolate you and rush you into sending money or giving away personal information. They depend on you ignoring your instincts. If something feels off, take a moment, step back, and talk through the situation with someone you know. Always trust your gut!
Stay Informed:
Keep an eye on our social media pages and website for upcoming fraud education tips and resources to help you stay one step ahead of scams.
Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MontanaFederalCreditUnion/
Visit our website for fraud prevention resources: https://www.montanacu.com/advice/security-fraud-prevention/