Online Safety

Safeguard Your Information

Sunbelt Federal Credit Union will NEVER call, email, or text you to request your personal account information – like a one time passcode, your debit card number or PIN, your account information or your cloud banking credentials.

Sunbelt prioritizes the security and confidentiality of our members' personal information. We are strongly committed to keeping your personal information private by enforcing strict internal security systems, encrypting confidential information, limiting information shared with our third-party vendors, and continuously educating our employees on the rapidly changing scamming techniques.

One of the best defenses to falling victim of scams and fraud is to become an educated consumer. We want to provide our members with the necessary cyber security information and tips to insure their personal information is kept safe.

 

 

How to Stay Safe in Cyberspace.

Here are some great tips and information that can help you stay safe online. 

• PHISHING SCAMS
  Phishing scams attempt to trick you into providing sensitive information by pretending to be a trusted source. These scams often come in the form of emails, phone calls, or text messages that appear to be from legitimate institutions.
  How to Protect Yourself:
  — Never click on links or download attachments from unknown or suspicious emails.
  — Verify the sender by contacting the company directly using a trusted phone number.
  — Look for warning signs such as urgent language, misspellings, or unfamiliar links.
   
• IDENTITY THEFT
  Identity theft occurs when someone steals your personal information to commit fraud, such as opening accounts in your name.
  How to Protect Yourself:
  — Use strong, unique passwords for each of your accounts.
  — Monitor your credit report regularly for any unauthorized activity.
  — Shred sensitive documents before disposing of them.
   
• CARD SKIMMING & FRAUDULENT TRANSACTIONS
  Card skimming involves criminals installing devices on ATMs or payment terminals to steal card information.
  How to Protect Yourself:
  — Use ATMs in well-lit, secure locations.
  — Cover the keypad when entering your PIN.
  — Regularly check your account statements for unauthorized transactions.
   
• CYBERSECURITY BEST PRACTICES
  Device Security:
  — Keep your computer, smartphone, and other devices updated with the latest security patches.
  — Install and maintain reliable antivirus software.
  — Avoid using public Wi-Fi for banking transactions.
  
  Online Banking:
  — Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) for an extra layer of security.
  — Log out of your accounts when finished.
  — Use biometric authentication (fingerprint or facial recognition) when available.
  — Monitor account activity – such as login activity and transactions.
  — If you suspect your online banking account has been compromised, immediately change your password and contact Sunbelt.
   
• RECOGNIZING & REPORTING FRAUD
  Recognizing Fraud or Suspicious Activity
  — Regularly review your transactions and statements for any payments that may be out of the ordinary.
  — Periodically check your account's login activity for any login attempts made from unknown IPs or devices.
  
  If you suspect fraudulent activity, act quickly:
  — Contact Sunbelt Federal Credit Union immediately.
  — Report suspicious emails or messages to Sunbelt Federal Credit Union.
  — Notify the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or your local law enforcement.
   

By staying vigilant and following these safety measures, you can help protect yourself from fraud and online threats.
Remember, Sunbelt Federal Credit Union will NEVER call, email, or text you to request your personal account information – like a one time passcode, your debit card number or PIN, your account information or your cloud banking credentials.
STAY SAFE. STAY INFORMED.