The State Universities Retirement System (SURS) would like to remind members about the rise in sophisticated scam attempts targeting pension systems and financial institutions.
Scammers have been using multiple tactics in an attempt to obtain confidential member information, including impersonating members when contacting call centers, sending fake emails and text messages, and embedding malicious links designed to install malware on personal devices.
SURS works diligently to stay one step ahead of these bad actors to safeguard your confidential data. We encourage you to also remain alert and take steps to help protect your information and online accounts.
What You Can Do to Stay Secure
-
- Use strong, unique passwords and avoid saving them in your browser. Update passwords regularly and change them immediately if you notice suspicious activity.
- Log in to the secure SURS secure Member Website often to verify and update your personal information and beneficiary details.
- Never share your personal, financial, or SURS account details with strangers or unverified requestors. Be wary of attempts to impersonate trusted institutions.
- Remember that SURS will never ask for personal or financial information via text or email.
- Review your bank statements frequently and report unauthorized activity as soon as you detect it.
- Delete unexpected texts and emails containing links or attachments. If a message appears legitimate, do not click the included link or call the number provided. Instead, look up the official website or phone number yourself and call them directly to verify.
- Keep your devices, apps, and browsers updated. Software updates patch security holes that hackers exploit.
- Avoid handling financial information on public WiFi networks. Save those tasks for your secure home network.
Members with concerns about the security of their SURS account are encouraged to call SURS immediately at 217-378-8800 or 800-275-7877.
How to Report Suspected Fraud
-
- Contact SURS directly if you suspect an issue with your account.
- Report incidents to your local police fraud unit.
- Reach the Illinois Attorney General Senior Citizens Consumer Fraud Helpline at 800-243-5377 or seniorhelpline@ilag.gov.
- Report to the U.S. Department of Justice’s Criminal/Fraud Division at 877-FTC-HELP, 877-IDT-HEFT, or online at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.