Alerts

2023 Online Visa Debit Card Sweepstakes

Use your Shell FCU Visa^â Debit card for all of your online purchases, from ordering food to streaming your favorites shows. You can get a chance to win a $15,000 Grand Prize or one of ten $1,500 cash prizes. The card features advanced technology that helps prevent fraud, so you can rest assured that your online purchases are secure with your Shell FCU Visa^â Debit card.

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Open to 50 US/DC, 18+. Ends 6/30/23. To see Official Rules visit visa.com/builtinprotection/rules.

Jugging Crime Trend

Keeping your money safe is as important to us as it is to you. Jugging is a crime trend on the rise the last couple years. Jugging involves robbers who stake out unsuspecting victims in financial institution parking lots or near ATMs. The often violent criminals then follow their target to their next destination in order to rob them. The jugging can occur in a parking lot or after being followed at the victim’s home. “Juggers” typically target those who have withdrawn large amounts of cash from an ATM or teller.

Research shows the term jugging stems from decades ago when people would transport money in jugs. The term “bank jugging” or “jugging” isn’t defined by Texas law, but that doesn’t mean it’s not illegal. Individuals committing a crime can face serious charges, such as robbery or burglary. The specific charge depends on the conduct of the actor and whether or not force was used. There are a number of charges that can stem from jugging, including aggravated robbery, robbery, burglary of a motor vehicle, burglary of a habitation, etc.

Always monitor your surroundings and conceal your money or cash envelope before exiting the credit union. Never count cash in public or leave money unattended in a vehicle, locked or unlocked. This tip applies even for a quick stop or while parked at home. Be alert and stay off your phone when heading to your car with your keys in hand. If you ever feel like you’re being followed, don’t go home. Go to a police station or call 9-1-1.

If you have any questions or concerns please reach out to us at (713) 844-1100. Thank you for the opportunity to serve you!

Scam Alert - Past Due Utility Bills

Attention Shell FCU Members!

Fraudsters continue to evolve scams associated with Mobile Payment Apps, such as Zelle, Venmo and Cash App, by introducing urgency to pay supposed delinquent utility bills to avoid service being discontinued. Beware of scammers calling or texting claiming to be from a utility company stating they did not receive payment and service will be turned off if payment is not sent immediately.

We suggest you disconnect the call and then call the verified utility company phone number or login to their website to verify your balance. If payment is due immediately, please make payment through the verified utility company website, their payment by phone or your financial institution’s Bill Payment. Funds sent through Mobile Payment Apps are non-refundable and should only be sent to verified recipients.

If you have any questions or if you are targeted by a scam like this, please report it to the FTC at www.ftc.gov/complaint.