4 Essential Tips to Keep Your Financial Information Secure
Message from the CEO: Fraud Prevention
In today’s digital world, staying safe from fraud isn’t always easy—but you don’t have to do it alone.
Unfortunately, fraudsters are becoming more sophisticated and continue to target vulnerable groups of people. According to the Federal Trade Commission, data shows that consumers reported losing more than $12.5 billion to fraud in 2024, representing a 25% increase over the prior year.
That's why protecting our members is so important to us. In addition to all of the fraud monitoring we utilize behind the scenes, one of the most effective forms of protection is educating our members – and that starts with empowering you to recognize and stop fraud before it happens.
Here are some of the most effective ways you can protect your personal and financial information.
Pause and Verify
Before responding to a call, text, or email from us or anyone else —pause. If anything feels off, verify the sender or caller. Do not hesitate to hang up and call back using a verified number.
Be Cautious with Links and Attachments
Never click on suspicious links or open unexpected attachments, and double-check URLs to ensure the site is legitimate. Watch out for small differences or misspellings that fraudsters use to mimic real websites.
Never Share Security Codes
We will never ask you to share a multi-factor authentication (MFA) code over the phone or via text. If someone asks you for that number, do not give it to them.
Control and Monitor Your Cards
Use card controls for your debit and credit cards when available. Set up alerts to be notified of any purchases or account activity, and make sure you regularly check your statements so you can spot any transactions that you do not recognize. These small steps can provide you peace of mind.
Keep Your Credentials Strong
Use strong, unique usernames and passwords for each account, and update them regularly. Aim for a password with at least 8 characters, and use a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special symbols. Passwords should not contain personal information such as your pet's name or the name of your street, as that information can be found online and used to guess your passwords.
Keep Browsers, Software, and Operating Systems Up to Date
Update your system, browser, and important apps regularly, taking advantage of automatic updating when it's available. These updates can eliminate software flaws that allow hackers to view your activity or steal your information.
Ensure Your Contact Information is Up-to-Date
Lastly, ensure your contact information is up-to-date with us so we can quickly reach you if there's ever suspicious activity on your account. When we send a fraud alert, responding promptly and accurately is essential.
Our goal is to help you keep your money safe – and to ensure you feel informed, empowered, and in control. We're proud to be your financial institution, and we're here to support you every step of the way.
Scott Woods, CPA
President and CEO
Unfortunately, fraudsters are becoming more sophisticated and continue to target vulnerable groups of people. According to the Federal Trade Commission, data shows that consumers reported losing more than $12.5 billion to fraud in 2024, representing a 25% increase over the prior year.
That's why protecting our members is so important to us. In addition to all of the fraud monitoring we utilize behind the scenes, one of the most effective forms of protection is educating our members – and that starts with empowering you to recognize and stop fraud before it happens.
Here are some of the most effective ways you can protect your personal and financial information.
Pause and Verify
Before responding to a call, text, or email from us or anyone else —pause. If anything feels off, verify the sender or caller. Do not hesitate to hang up and call back using a verified number.
Be Cautious with Links and Attachments
Never click on suspicious links or open unexpected attachments, and double-check URLs to ensure the site is legitimate. Watch out for small differences or misspellings that fraudsters use to mimic real websites.
Never Share Security Codes
We will never ask you to share a multi-factor authentication (MFA) code over the phone or via text. If someone asks you for that number, do not give it to them.
Control and Monitor Your Cards
Use card controls for your debit and credit cards when available. Set up alerts to be notified of any purchases or account activity, and make sure you regularly check your statements so you can spot any transactions that you do not recognize. These small steps can provide you peace of mind.
Keep Your Credentials Strong
Use strong, unique usernames and passwords for each account, and update them regularly. Aim for a password with at least 8 characters, and use a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special symbols. Passwords should not contain personal information such as your pet's name or the name of your street, as that information can be found online and used to guess your passwords.
Keep Browsers, Software, and Operating Systems Up to Date
Update your system, browser, and important apps regularly, taking advantage of automatic updating when it's available. These updates can eliminate software flaws that allow hackers to view your activity or steal your information.
Ensure Your Contact Information is Up-to-Date
Lastly, ensure your contact information is up-to-date with us so we can quickly reach you if there's ever suspicious activity on your account. When we send a fraud alert, responding promptly and accurately is essential.
Our goal is to help you keep your money safe – and to ensure you feel informed, empowered, and in control. We're proud to be your financial institution, and we're here to support you every step of the way.
Scott Woods, CPA
President and CEO