WATCH: Launch Credit Union Recognized Among America’s Best Regional Credit Unions for 2024

based on an analysis of independent customer surveys of more than 35,000 U.S. citizens

ABOVE VIDEO: Launch Credit Union’s Fraud Manager, Eveline as she speaks with Space Coast Daily’s Karina Connor to discuss recent fraud trends and tips on how you can protect yourself.

BREVARD COUNTY, FLORIDA – Launch Credit Union was recognized as one of America’s best regional credit unions for 2024 based on an analysis of independent customer surveys of more than 35,000 U.S. citizens.

The survey was designed to review institutions through their customer journeys on 12 categories using 75 items.

The survey collected more than 140,000 reviews for regional banks and credit unions distributed across all states.

In addition, more than 1.3 million social media reviews and 148 million Apple App store and Google Play store reviews were collected to support the scoring model.

Regional banks and credit unions play a pivotal role in meeting the needs of communities across the nation. Newsweek and market-data research firm Plant-A Insights are proud to introduce America’s Best Regional Banks and Credit Unions 2024, highlighting local lenders that are committed to the needs of their communities, according to Nancy Cooper, Global Editor in Chief, Newsweek.

“Being named to the America’s Best Regional Credit Unions for 2024 by Newsweek is quite an accomplishment, however, we have always strived to be the best for our members here locally,” said Kelly Haskins, VP Marketing, Launch Credit Union. “Serving our members’ needs with the highest level of services and compassion is just what we do every day.”

For more information on Launch Credit Union, Click Here.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the way we live and work. Unfortunately, though, it’s also revolutionizing the way scammers con unsuspecting victims into sharing their personally identifiable information and their money.

Fraudsters are using artificial intelligence to help them pull off their scams. Learn how to spot them and how to keep yourself safe!

Here’s what you need to know about AI fraud and how to protect yourself.

What is AI fraud?

AI fraud is the use of artificial intelligence to deceive or defraud individuals or organizations. When using artificial intelligence to pull off a scam, fraudsters use AI algorithms to create convincing fake identities, manipulate social media, generate realistic fake images and videos (AKA “deepfakes”) and more.

The scammers then create fake social media profiles and email addresses using these bogus identities and footage. Often, they’ll pretend to represent family members, friends, celebrities or other famed personalities for soliciting money and information.

In another form of AI fraud, scammers use social engineering tactics to trick people into giving them their personal information or money. They may create fake websites or emails that appear to be from legitimate sources, such as financial institutions or government agencies, and ask people to provide their personal information or login credentials.

AI fraud is especially dangerous because its sophistication makes it difficult to detect. Thanks to AI technology, scammers appear to be legitimate, increasing the likelihood that people will fall for their scams.

Types of AI Fraud
AI fraud is executed in several forms, including:

–  Phishing
– Identity theft
– Deepfakes
– Fake news
– Social media manipulation
– Chatbot scams
– Fraudulent financial advice
– Each type of AI fraud has its own unique characteristics and risks.

Red flags
Are you being targeted by AI fraud? These red flags may be your first clue of an AI scam:

– Multiple unsolicited emails and/or text messages
– Being asked to provide personal information or login credentials by an unverified contact
– Unusual and/or unexplained activity on your social media accounts
– Receiving financial advice that seems too good to be true
– If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to be cautious and investigate further. If the contact claims to represent a government agency, do not engage. Reach out directly to the agency that supposedly contacted you to see if the communication is legit. Follow the same steps if you’ve been contacted by an alleged representative of – Launch CU and something about the interaction has set alarm bells ringing in your head. It’s always better to be on the safe side when it comes to your personally identifiable information and your money.

Protect yourself
You don’t have to wait to be targeted by AI fraud to protect yourself from falling victim to these scams. Keep your money and information secure by following these precautions at all times:

– Never share sensitive information online with an unverified contact.
– Always check the URL of each landing page when banking online or using another platform to share sensitive information. Look for the “s” after the “http” and the padlock icon, as well as the correct spelling of the company’s website to ensure you haven’t been lured into a look-alike scammy site.
– Use strong, unique passwords across all of your accounts.
– Keep your device’s security on its strongest setting.
– Be wary of messages asking for money or information.
– Use updated antivirus software on your personal devices.

If you’ve been targeted
If you suspect you’ve been the victim of AI fraud, it is important to act quickly to mitigate the damage. First, contact Launch CU to let us know your information has been compromised. Similarly, reach out to your credit card companies to let them know about the fraud. Next, report the fraud to the FTC so they can take appropriate measures in catching the humans behind the bot-generated scam. You’ll also want to change your passwords and login credentials and consider a credit freeze. Finally, if your identity has been stolen, reach out to identitytheft.gov to learn your next steps.

AI fraud is a growing concern, but there are steps you can take to protect yourself. Follow the tips outlined here and on our Security Center page to stay safe.

For more information on Launch Credit Union, Click Here

For more information about Launch Credit Union, please visit Launchcu.com or call 321-455-9400.

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