The California Credit Union League’s Central Valley Network hosted an important discussion on fraud trends and prevention, bringing together local credit union professionals and law enforcement experts last week at Self-Help Credit Union’s Modesto, CA branch. The event provided a platform for collaboration in the fight against increasingly sophisticated financial crime.
In addition, a “Fraud Trends and Prevention” panel featured a distinguished group of speakers, including Ana Zuber, director of risk and compliance at Mocse Credit Union; Jacob Hook, crime detective for the Modesto Police Department; and Special Agents Juliana Forester and Dan P. Harper from the Diplomatic Security Service.
The discussion drew attendees from several local credit unions, including Valley First Credit Union, Modesto’s First Credit Union, Central State Credit Union, Golden Valley Federal Credit Union, and Mocse Credit Union.
Panelists shared real-world insights, focusing on rising fraud trends, particularly those targeting elder members. An important theme was the importance of collaboration between credit unions and law enforcement.
The discussion also highlighted several actionable strategies for attendees, such as the value of timestamped surveillance footage, creating dedicated cross-departmental fraud response teams, and using every member interaction as an opportunity for financial education. The panelists also touched on the dual nature of artificial intelligence (AI), recognizing its potential to both complicate and aid fraud prevention efforts.
Jonathan Jones, board member of the League’s Central Valley Network and director of retail banking for Valley First Credit Union, moderated the panel. He captured the event’s spirit.
“Serving our members includes helping them through the bad times,” Jones said. “We need to be as resourceful as we can in helping them maintain their financial freedom.”
The event spotlighted the Central Valley Network’s commitment to providing resources and fostering a united front against financial crime.
“This year, our local Networks have been asked to host at least one event focused on cyber-security, and the conversation that took place last week demonstrates that collaboration helping every credit union to create more impact in their communities,” said Elise Schexnayder, director of professional development for the California Credit Union League and Nevada’s Credit Unions. “Credit union leaders in the Central Valley Network have collectively raised the bar on fraud awareness. Our great work will continue.”
The Central Valley Network will continue to host events designed to empower credit union professionals with the knowledge and connections needed to protect their institutions and members.
