What to expect when you get a fraud alert
If we spot unusual activity on your card, we’ll reach out.
Most often, that means a quick text asking you to confirm a transaction. It’s a simple way to catch fraud early and keep your card working without interruption.
These messages are a normal part of how we help protect your account.
How fraud text alerts work
Numerica monitors debit and credit card activity for anything that looks out of the ordinary.
If something doesn’t look right:
- You’ll receive a text asking if you’re available to review suspicious activity on your card
- If you reply YES, you’ll review one transaction at a time
- You’ll reply YES or NO for each transaction
- If needed, we’ll guide you through the next step to protect your card
It’s quick, simple, and helps stop fraud in real time.
What the text looks like
Here’s an example of a Numerica fraud alert:
Alert
A message explaining that suspicious activity was noticed on the Visa card ending in XXXX, asking if the member is available to verify now, with:
- Reply YES to start
- Reply NO if not available
- Call 844.834.8551 for assistance
- Reply STOP to opt out
Response to YES
Message explains:
- One transaction will be sent at a time
- Member must verify each one before moving to the next
- Reply YES for authorized or NO for not authorized
- Gives transaction examples
Response to NO
Message says:
- No problem
- Numerica will contact later
- Member can also call 844.834.8551
- Reply STOP to opt out
If member replies YES to a transaction
Message says:
- Card is available for continued use
- If transaction was declined, try purchase again
- Call 844.834.8551 for assistance
If member replies NO to a transaction
Message asks one last question:
- Reply 1 if card was lost
- Reply 2 if card was stolen
- Reply 3 if card is still in member’s possession
Final blocked-card message
Message says:
- Card has been blocked
- Visit local branch for a new card
- Call 800.793.4009 for dispute instructions and other questions
How to recognize a real Numerica fraud alert
Some scam messages are designed to look like fraud alerts. That can make it hard to know what’s real.
Numerica fraud alerts follow a simple pattern:
- They reference a specific transaction (amount, merchant, last 4 digits)
- They ask you to reply YES or NO
- They do not include links
- They do not ask for passwords, passcodes, or account details
If a message asks you to click a link, log in, or share sensitive information, it is not a Numerica fraud alert.
If you’re unsure, always verify through a trusted source or learn how to spot phishing scams.
Why your response matters
Responding helps us act quickly and protect your account.
- If activity is authorized, your card remains available for continued use
- If activity is not authorized, you’ll be guided through one more step so the right action can be taken on your card
In some cases, your card may be blocked and you may be directed to your local branch for a new card.
A quick note on safety
Fraud alerts are designed to be simple and secure.
Numerica will never:
- Ask for your passcodes or login information
- Ask you to move money to “protect” your account
- Send links asking you to verify account details
If a message asks for any of these, it’s not from us.
Not sure if a message is real?
That’s okay. It’s always better to double-check.
Instead of using a link or number in the message, go to a trusted source:
Bonus: Learn how to spot phishing scams
What to do if something feels off
If a message doesn’t feel right:
- Don’t respond or engage
- Delete the message
If you think you may have interacted with a suspicious message:
- Contact Numerica right away at 800.433.1837
- Change your passwords
- Monitor your accounts for unusual activity
Remember this
Pause. Verify. Then act.
Fraud alerts are here to help protect you, but taking a moment to double-check can help protect your money and your peace of mind.
Bonus: Explore more ways to protect yourself
Updated April 2026
Written by the Numerica Financial Education Team: Helping members grow their money across Spokane, North Idaho, Wenatchee, and the Tri-Cities.
