Protecting Yourself & Your Finances
Recognize Phishing Scams
Protect Your Debit & Credit Cards
Protect Against Identity Theft
Secure Your Online Banking
Watch Out for Impersonation Scams
Freeze Your Credit for Added Protection
Stay Informed & Report Fraud Immediately
Need Assistance? Stay Safe and Stay Secure
Protecting Yourself & Your Finances
Recognize Phishing Scams
Phishing scams are attempts to steal your personal information through fake communications (emails, calls, or texts) that appear to be from trusted institutions.
Red Flags
- Urgent messages asking you to click a link or provide personal information.
- Requests for sensitive details via email (we'll never ask for your data this way!).
- Unfamiliar sender email addresses, odd phrasing, or spelling errors.
What You Can Do
- Verify the source by contacting the institution directly using official contact info.
- Never click on links or open attachments from unknown senders.
Protect Your Debit & Credit Cards
Fraudulent card activity can occur when your debit or credit card details are compromised. Increasingly, physical cards are required less and less to commit fraud, so do not assume that just because you physically have your cards means they may not be compromised.
Red Flags
- Unfamiliar transactions on your statements.
- Unexpected charges appearing in your account.
What You Can Do
- Report suspicious transactions to Vicinity Credit Union immediately.
- Keep your card safe and never share your PIN or card number.
- Monitor your accounts regularly for unusual activity.
After Hours? Call 800-472-3272 to report your card lost or stolen.
Protect Against Identity Theft
Identity theft happens when someone uses your personal information to commit fraud. It can lead to unauthorized accounts or transactions in your name.
Red Flags
- Unexpected credit offers or loan applications in your name.
- Missing mail or strange changes in your credit report.
- Unexplained charges on your accounts.
What You Can Do
- Monitor your credit score regularly - sign up for SavvyMoney through online banking.
- Use strong, unique passwords for all accounts, and enable two-factor authentication (2FA) whenever available.
Secure Your Online Banking
Online banking is convenient but requires extra security. Cybercriminals are always trying to steal information, so protect your online accounts.
Tips for Secure Online Banking
- Use complex, unique passwords and change them regularly.
- Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) whenever possible.
- Avoid using public Wi-Fi when accessing secure accounts.
- Log out of your account when you’re finished.
- Use a VPN for additional protection and security.
- Set up email or text account alerts through online banking.
Watch Out for Impersonation Scams
Scammers may impersonate a representative of a trusted company, including Vicinity Credit Union, to steal your money or personal details.
Red Flags
- Unsolicited calls asking for immediate payment or personal information.
- Calls claiming to be from Vicinity Credit Union requesting you verify your details.
What You Can Do
- Hang up and call the official customer service number from the back of your card or visit our website to confirm.
- Never provide sensitive info over the phone unless you initiate the call.
Freeze Your Credit for Added Protection
- Equifax: Security Freeze
- Experian: Credit File
- TransUnion: Credit Freeze
Stay Informed & Report Fraud Immediately
If you suspect fraud, the sooner you act, the better. Here’s what to do:
What You Can Do
- Contact Vicinity Credit Union immediately if you notice suspicious activity. We’ll guide you through the next steps.
- Place a fraud alert or freeze your credit with the major bureaus.
- File a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and local law enforcement.
