5 Best Practices To Protect Yourself From Fraud
May 25, 2023
Fraud can happen to anyone at any time and with fraudulent attempts on the rise worldwide, we want to make sure you’re prepared, and you know what to do if and when fraud may cross your path. The best way to protect yourself from fraud is to know what signs to look for and what to do to protect your personal information.
1. Don't Trust Every Call, Text, Or Email You Receive!
If you receive a call or text from an unknown number or even a number you know and trust, be on alert for the questions you’re being asked.
Fraudsters and bad actors are known for mimicking numbers you know and trust and asking the right questions to gain access to your bank account or personal information.
Always remember, Unison Credit Union team members will NEVER ask you for your:
- Full debit or credit card number,
- Usernames or any account passwords
- PIN number
- Security questions, including any answers.
If you receive a call asking you for any of this information, hang up immediately and please let us know by calling us at 920.766.6000.
2. Set Up Activity Alerts for Your Credit & Debit Cards
Setting up activity alerts on your debit or credit card can help you catch fraud the minute it happens and allows you to shut it down before it goes any further. If you see suspicious activity on your account, lock your card down immediately by logging into our Mobile App and accessing Mange Debit/Credit Card from the main menu or the Manage My Cards feature from the “More” menu.
3. Don't Download Suspicious Files
Opening files attached in texts or emails can be extremely dangerous, especially when it’s unexpected or from an unknown source. Fraudsters often disguise themselves as a company or organization you use often, such as your financial institution, phone company, or delivery service like FedEx. Clicking on links from an unknown source can open you up to malware and viruses on your device as well as provide them with access to your personal information.
- Always Remember: When in doubt, throw it out (after you shred it)! Are you coming to our ShredFest? Mark your calendar for Saturday, June 17, 2023, from 8:00 am – 11:00 am at Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium!
4. Never Send Money To An Unknown Source
If you’re asked to transfer money to someone you don’t know, chances are you’re in the middle of a scam. While this could be disguised as a trusted company on the phone or a friend on social media, look for all the signs that point to this being illegitimate and stop the conversation immediately.
5. Closely Monitor Your Credit Score & Report
Credit monitoring can help you spot errors or signs of identity theft so you can take the steps to quickly address them. As a perk of being a Unison Credit Union member, you have access to check your credit score for free 24/7 with SAVVYMONEY! Log in to online banking or our mobile app to sign up today.
We also recommend pulling your credit report from www.annualcreditreport.com. You are allowed one free pull each year.