Unauthorized Port Fraud

URGENT FRAUD ALERT: Beware of Unauthorized Mobile “Port Out” Scams

We have been made aware of an active scam affecting several members related to their Verizon mobile accounts. We have gathered the information below directly from Verizon as that is how our members have been affected. However, this appears to be a scam affecting many mobile carriers and their customers nationwide. Please take note to protect yourself and your family! Criminals are increasingly targeting mobile phone numbers to break into financial and social media accounts for the purpose of identity theft and financial fraud.

How Criminals Have Targeted Our Members:

Fraudsters are calling or texting from a known number belonging to their mobile carrier. In these cases, our members were Verizon customers. They reported that the messages and caller were professional and very sophisticated, completely appearing to be direct from Verizon. Members are asked to verify recent mobile device purchases that appear to be fraudulent on their accounts. When the members denied making the purchases, they are taken through a series of account identifying questions to reassure them the fraud is being handled. Members are sent what they believe is a multi-factor security authentication number to verify their identity with the caller or fraud system message. However, the number is in fact their “Port-Out” code that allows the fraudster to then transfer the member’s mobile phone number to a different carrier and allows the fraudster access to the mobile device and access to any apps and accounts, both financial and social, stored on the device.

This is “Unauthorized Port Out”
An unauthorized port out occurs when a cybercriminal fraudulently transfers your mobile phone number from your legitimate carrier (such as Verizon, AT&T, or T Mobile) to a new carrier without your consent.

Once your number is moved, the criminal effectively takes control of your phone line.

According to Verizon, port out fraud allows criminals to intercept calls, text messages, and—most dangerously—one time security codes used to protect online accounts.

Why This Scam Is So Dangerous

Your mobile number is often the key to your digital life. Many banks, credit unions, email providers, and social media platforms rely on text messages or phone calls to verify your identity.

When criminals hijack your number, they can:

• Receive security and authentication codes

• Reset passwords on financial and social media accounts
• Intercept calls meant for you
• Lock you out of your own accounts
• Steal money or apply for credit in your name
• Commit identity theft

In many cases, victims first notice the problem when their phone suddenly loses service or displays messages like “No Network” or “Emergency Calls Only.”

How Criminals Pull It Off

Fraudsters typically gather personal information through:
• Phishing emails or text messages
• Data breaches
• Social engineering or impersonation

They then contact your mobile carrier pretending to be you and request that your number be “ported” to a new device or carrier they control.

Warning Signs of a Port Out Attack

Be alert if you experience any of the following:
• Sudden loss of mobile service
• Inability to send or receive calls and texts
• Password reset notifications you didn’t request
• Alerts about changes to your phone or online accounts
• Unrecognized logins or transactions

If any of these occur, act immediately.

How to Protect Yourself

You can significantly reduce your risk by taking these steps today:

Add Extra Security to Your Mobile Account
• Set up a port out PIN or passcode with your mobile carrier
• Enable account change alerts
• Use a strong, unique account password

Strengthen Your Online Accounts
• Enable multi factor authentication (MFA) using an authenticator app—not just SMS when possible
• Use unique passwords for financial and email accounts
• Avoid sharing personal information online

Be Cautious with Messages and Calls
• Don’t click links or respond to unexpected calls, texts or emails
• Never share one time security codes with anyone
• Verify requests by contacting companies directly using official phone numbers

What to Do If You Think You Are a Victim
If you believe your phone number has been compromised:
1. Contact your mobile carrier immediately to regain control of your number
2. Change passwords on financial, email, and social media accounts
3. Notify The Southern Credit Union and any other financial institutions right away
4. Monitor accounts closely for suspicious activity
5. Consider placing a fraud alert or credit freeze with credit bureaus

Other helpful resources:

https://www.fcc.gov/consumers/scam-alert/port-out-fraud-targets-your-private-accounts

https://www.fcc.gov/cell-phone-fraud