Is My Account Being Hacked or Just Locked?

Here’s the situation… I noticed on the 6th that around $2,000 was charged to my credit card without my knowledge. I reported it, got the card canceled, and a new one is on its way. This actually happened once before, back in August.

Today, I got a notification saying my account is locked because of ‘suspicious activity.’ My rent did go through today (I pay it using Venmo), so I figured it might just be an extra layer of monitoring. But when I called the number that showed up, customer service was closed, so I couldn’t get it unlocked.

Just now, I received an email with a new document titled “USAA Account Closure Notification.” Since I can’t log in to view the document, I’m just sitting here, feeling uneasy. Is this standard for a locked account, or could someone have actually gotten in and is doing damage? Has anyone seen this document before?

Do you only have a credit card with USAA, or do you also have other accounts?

Valentine said:
Do you only have a credit card with USAA, or do you also have other accounts?

No, I’ve got everything with them, including insurance.

Lex said:

Valentine said:
Do you only have a credit card with USAA, or do you also have other accounts?

No, I’ve got everything with them, including insurance.

Usually, that kind of subject line means an account—could be a bank account, credit card, or even a CD—has been closed. USAA’s banking and credit card services are usually available 24/7. You might be able to reach them by selecting ‘lost or stolen card.’

@Valentine
I’ve tried four different numbers and keep getting the same response: ‘our offices are closed.’ And since my account is frozen, I can’t log in either.

Lex said:
@Valentine
I’ve tried four different numbers and keep getting the same response: ‘our offices are closed.’ And since my account is frozen, I can’t log in either.

Sounds like they might have restricted your profile entirely. Try again after 7 am Central. Do you know if your debit card still works?

@Valentine
I haven’t checked it yet. Luckily, I have some cash on hand, so I’ll be okay if it’s locked too.

This happened to me once. When USAA locks an account, it often stays locked for about 7 days, and they won’t reopen it during that time. They’re usually just monitoring to ensure no more activity happens.

Since today is only the 7th, I doubt they’ve closed the account due to yesterday’s fraud already. They usually just lock accounts and send automated alerts. The fraud department should be open at 7 am CST. Try giving them a call then.

@Blake
Yeah, I guess that’s my only option right now. Thanks for the advice.

I had four fraud cases in three months over the summer. That email about the account closure is probably related to the credit card. If you call, they should be able to sort things out for you.

It’s likely just the credit card that’s been closed. They’ll open a new one for you.