Online Shipping Safety: Tips for Secure Transactions

At 1st Community Credit Union (1st CCU), your financial security is our top priority. With online shopping becoming increasingly popular, it’s essential to stay vigilant against potential scams and fraudulent activity. Whether you're snagging holiday deals or making everyday purchases, follow these tips to ensure your transactions remain safe and secure.

Guard Your Personal Information

Never give out sensitive information like your social security number, account numbers, or online banking credentials. Scammers often pose as legitimate companies or even your financial institution to steal your details. Here are some key reminders:

• Ignore suspicious messages. If you receive a call, text, or email requesting your login information or personal data, don’t respond. 1st CCU will never ask for sensitive information this way.
• Beware of impersonators. Fraudsters might claim to represent 1st CCU or another trusted entity. Always contact us directly to verify.
• Protect your passwords. Use unique, strong passwords for your accounts, and never share them with anyone—even people you trust.

If you suspect your personal information has been compromised, contact us immediately. Our Fraud Prevention Help Center is here to assist you.

Monitor Your Accounts Regularly

Stay one step ahead of fraudsters by keeping an eye on your account activity. At 1st CCU, we offer tools to make this easier:

• Online and Mobile Banking. Use our 1st CCU Anywhere platform to review transactions, set up eAlerts, and manage your accounts securely.
• Credit Card Management. Track purchases and report discrepancies through our online tools.
• P.A.T.T. Telephone Banking. Get account updates anytime with this free member resource.

It’s your responsibility to monitor accounts daily, weekly, or monthly. If you notice anything suspicious, reach out to us right away to prevent further issues.

Take Advantage of Card Protection Features

Your debit and credit cards are powerful tools—but they’re also common targets for fraud. Fortunately, 1st CCU offers several features to help protect them:

• Lock your card. Misplaced your card or suspect it’s been compromised? Use 1st CCU Anywhere to lock your card instantly.
• Report lost or stolen cards. Call us during business hours at 608-269-8121 or toll-free at 1-888-706-1228. Outside business hours, dial 1-800-449-7728 to report the issue.
• Instant replacement. Need a new debit card? We can print one for you within minutes, so you don’t have to wait weeks for a replacement.

By acting quickly, you can minimize risks and protect your finances.

Shop Only on Secure Websites

When shopping online, prioritize security over convenience. Look for the following:

• HTTPS in the URL. Websites with "https://" in their address and a padlock icon are generally secure.
• Trusted retailers. Stick to well-known brands or stores with positive reviews. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.
• Avoid public Wi-Fi. Never enter personal or financial information while connected to unsecured networks.

When in doubt, err on the side of caution. It’s better to miss a sale than to fall victim to a scam.

Stay Wary of Phishing Scams

Phishing is one of the most common tactics scammers use to steal your information. They may send emails or texts that appear to come from a legitimate source, like 1st CCU. Remember:

• Never click suspicious links. Instead, navigate directly to the company's official website.
• Verify email addresses. Scammers often use fake but convincing email addresses. Be cautious if the sender’s address seems unusual.
• Don’t trust unsolicited job offers or “romance” scams. Scammers prey on emotions to gain access to your money or accounts.

If you suspect a phishing attempt, bring the email or correspondence to 1st CCU for verification.

Protect Your Devices

Your devices play a crucial role in keeping your online activity secure. Here’s how to strengthen their defenses:

• Use antivirus software. Install reputable programs to shield your devices from malware.
• Enable two-factor authentication. Add an extra layer of security to your accounts by requiring a verification code.
• Keep software up-to-date. Outdated systems are vulnerable to attacks. Regular updates protect you from known security threats.

Taking these precautions ensures your device is ready to handle secure transactions.

Dispose of Sensitive Documents Properly

Fraud prevention doesn’t end online. Physical documents containing financial or personal information can also be a goldmine for thieves. Always shred documents like bank statements, bills, or pre-approved credit card offers before discarding them.

What to Do If You Suspect Fraud

Despite your best efforts, fraud can still happen. If you suspect your accounts have been compromised:

• Lock your card immediately. Use the 1st CCU Anywhere app or call us directly.
• Report suspicious activity. Notify 1st CCU of any unauthorized transactions or attempts to access your account.
• Update your passwords. Change your login credentials to prevent further breaches.

Your Partner in Security

At 1st Community Credit Union, we’re committed to helping you protect your financial well-being. By staying informed and proactive, you can shop online with confidence and avoid falling victim to scams.

For more tips and assistance, visit our Fraud Prevention Help Center or call us at 608-269-8121. Together, we can create a safe and secure banking experience.

Let’s make online shopping safe, smart, and stress-free!