Online Fraud Protection Tips

At UFCU, the security of your account information and your assets is a top priority. Whenever you access the Internet through a PC or a mobile device, you run the risk of exposing yourself and your company's systems to online scams or unauthorized app downloads. You may be unaware information has been stolen until the money is gone from your account.

Online fraud schemes attempt to obtain confidential information-including passwords, personal ID numbers, and token codes-and use it to access your accounts, transfer money, or commit other fraudulent acts. Below are helpful tips to make sure you and your information are protected.

Online Fraud Protection for Consumers:

• Use your PC's firewall
• Keep your computer's operating system updated.
• Make sure internet sites you use are secure and have a privacy policy. Secure Internet sites start with "https" and should have a padlock icon.
• Scan for viruses and update your anti-virus software regularly
• Use strong passwords, at least 8 characters and preferably a combination of numbers, letters, and special characters. Try using phrases that mix letters and numbers.
• Never write down passwords and logons
• Regularly update your internet browser
• Do not click on unsolicited links or popups for anti-malware
• Do not provide anyone with your account credentials. UFCU will never ask you for your username or password
• Encrypt your wireless network and password protect your wireless router
• Don't conduct personal banking business on unsecured public Wi-Fi connections

Online Fraud Protection for Businesses:

• Keep business PC free of viruses and malware with regular scans and updated anti-virus software.
• Educate your employees to never open unsolicited email attachments or links
• Be aware of social engineer techniques and educate your employees against it
• Monitor your online account daily
• Practice dual controls and separation of duties in your business
• Protect your network and use only trusted websites on business PCs
• Do not share your passwords
• Know your employees, perform background checks in your hiring process
• Keep account authorizations up to date
• Take precautions at work as well as at home. Find out who has access to your information at work. Be sure to verify that records are kept in a secure location, and are accessible only to employees who have a legitimate reason to access that information.