Preventing Fraud

Safeguard your Personal Information
You are the single best source of protection against unauthorized use of your personal information. Here are some simple ways to safeguard your personal information:

General Safeguards

  • Keep personal or account information in a safe place.
  • Provide information only to trusted sources and never to individuals where you did not initiate the contact, or have confirmed the business or person's identity.
  • Reduce the amount of mail sent to you that could be stolen from your mailbox or trash. Choose electronic statement options (Unitus offers this service through uOnline banking or by contacting your member representative).
  • Opt-out of pre-approved credit offers by calling (888) 567-8688.
  • Frequently monitor your account statements and history online for unauthorized transactions.
  • Check your credit report for discrepancies on a regular basis. You can obtain a free credit report annually by visiting www.annualcreditreport.com

Home Computer Safeguards

  • Install anti-virus and anti-spyware on your home computer. There are many products available that will help prevent criminals from accessing your computer and stealing your personal information.
  • Add a firewall to your computer system to prevent unauthorized users from gaining access to your system.
  • Install all software fixes (sometimes called "service packs") that are made available for your computer programs as soon as possible if the fix addresses a security weakness.
  • Use a current web browser. Updated versions of web browsers are being deployed with your security in mind.
  • Activate a pop-up blocking tool. Pop-ups are advertisements that "pop-up" in a separate browser window. If you open some of these "pop-ups", you may be downloading "spyware" or "adware".
Credit and Debit Card Safeguards
  • Sign your cards immediately. Sign the signature panel on your credit and debit cards as soon as you receive them.
  • Personal Identification Number ("PIN.") Never carry or store your PIN and card together. If you can memorize your PIN shred any documents containing the PIN.
  • Verify your card. Be sure your card is returned following each purchase and verify that it is indeed your card.
  • Wait for your card receipt. Never leave your credit card receipts at the checkout counter. Always take your charge slips with you, and tear up any carbons.
  • Save your receipts. Check receipts against your online account statements or history. Report unauthorized transactions to your financial institution immediately. Once you have compared receipts to account statements, shred or destroy the receipts as soon as feasible.
  • Check your statements and watch your charges. Sign in to Online Banking and view your e-statements to verify that they properly reflect the amount(s) you have authorized. Also, watch for multiple charges.
  • Keep your statements private. Always keep your statements in a safe place.
  • Shred printed statements as soon as you've verified the information.
  • Keep your card out of sight. Never leave your purse or wallet unattended and always keep your cards out of plain sight.
  • Never lend your card. Your credit card is your responsibility, so don't give your card to others. Also, periodically check to make sure you have all your cards.
  • Keep a list of all your card account numbers, as well as of telephone numbers to call if your cards are ever lost or stolen. Make sure they're in a separate, secure place.
  • Be cautious when giving out your card number over the phone. Never provide account information to anyone who called you.
Automated Teller Machine ("ATM") Safety Guidelines
  • Use ATMs with surveillance cameras. Unitus Community Credit Union ATMs are monitored by surveillance cameras.
  • Be aware of strangers. If there are individuals in the area that make you uncomfortable, leave and use another ATM.
  • Put away your card and cash. After completing your transaction, secure your card and cash immediately, before exiting the ATM area. Count your cash later, in the safety of your locked car or home.
  • Treat your ATM card like cash. Always protect your card by keeping it in a safe place. If your card is lost or stolen, contact us immediately.
  • Protect your privacy. Shield the ATM keypad with your hand or body while entering your PIN. Do not leave your transaction record at the ATM. Keep your transaction record in a safe place, so you can compare it to your later statements.
  • Be cautious at drive-up ATMs. If you use a drive-up ATM, be sure your passenger windows are rolled up and your doors are locked.
  • Be careful at night. Be aware of your surroundings, especially after dark. If you must use an ATM at night, consider taking a trusted person with you.
  • Stay alert. If you notice anything suspicious or unsafe, such as non-working lights around the ATM, consider using another ATM or return when the situation is safe.
  • Report suspicious behavior. Report all crimes immediately to law enforcement officials.
  • Request emergency assistance and security. If you need emergency assistance, call 911 from the nearest telephone.