Online Security Resource Center
At Union Savings Bank, we know that managing your money does not have to be difficult. Our MoneyIQ resource provides you with information about money, banking, ID theft prevention and more! Click or tap on the MoneyIQ graphic to see our library of resources.
Fraud
If someone compromises your account or you receive a suspicious email, please contact our Fraud Department at the contact information below. We are available Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. (EST). Any email or voice mail received after-hours will be returned the next business day.
(800) 582-9702 [email protected]Keep Yourself Safe From Identity Theft
Identity theft is the illegal use of someone’s personal information (usernames, passwords, account numbers, etc.) to open new accounts or initiate transactions in your name. This is a serious threat in today’s digital age, but by taking a few proactive steps, you can significantly reduce your risk. Start by safeguarding your personal information; never share sensitive details like Social Security numbers, passwords, or banking information unless you are certain of the recipient’s identity and the reason for sharing. Use strong, unique passwords for your online accounts, and enable two-factor authentication wherever possible. Regularly monitor your bank statements and credit reports for any unusual activity, and immediately report any discrepancies. Be cautious of phishing attempts—emails, calls, or texts that ask for personal information—by verifying the sender’s authenticity before responding. Shredding documents with personal information before disposing of them and being careful about what you share on social media are also crucial. By staying vigilant and informed, you can protect yourself from becoming a victim of identity theft.
For more information on identity theft, visit the FTC’s website (https://consumer.ftc.gov/features/identity-theft).
Security Education: Protecting Your Financial Information
Your security is our top priority. We are committed to providing you with the tools and knowledge to protect your financial information, whether you are banking online, in-person, or on the go. Understanding security best practices is crucial in safeguarding your accounts from fraud and identity theft.
Online Banking Security
- Use Strong, Unique Passwords: Choose passwords that combine letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid using easily guessable information such as birthdays or common words. Change your passwords regularly and never share them with anyone.
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Whenever possible, activate two-factor authentication on your accounts. This extra layer of security requires a second form of verification, such as a code sent to your phone, in addition to your password.
- Beware of Phishing Scams: Phishing attacks are fraudulent attempts to steal your information by pretending to be a trusted entity. Never click on links or download attachments from unknown or suspicious emails. Always verify the sender’s identity before providing any personal information.
Mobile Banking Safety
- Download Only Official Apps: Ensure that you download the Union Savings Bank mobile app only from official app stores like Google Play or the Apple App Store. Avoid third-party sites, which may offer fraudulent versions of apps.
- Secure Your Device: Always lock your smartphone or tablet with a strong PIN, password, or biometric authentication like fingerprint or facial recognition. In case of theft or loss, this will help protect your information.
- Be Cautious on Public Wi-Fi: Avoid conducting financial transactions over public Wi-Fi networks, as they are more vulnerable to hackers. If you must use public Wi-Fi, consider using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to secure your connection.
In-Person and Telephone Security
- Protect Your PIN: When entering your PIN at an ATM or point-of-sale terminal, shield the keypad from view to prevent others from seeing your code. Always be aware of your surroundings when using ATMs.
- Verify Caller Identity: If you receive a call asking for personal information, be cautious. Scammers often pose as bank representatives. If in doubt, hang up and call us directly using the number on our official website to confirm the request’s legitimacy.
- Safeguard Your Checks and Cards: Keep your checks and debit cards in a secure location. Report lost or stolen checks and cards immediately so we can take steps to protect your account.
Recognizing and Reporting Fraud
- Monitor Your Accounts Regularly: Regularly review your account statements and transaction history for any suspicious activity. Early detection is key to preventing further fraud.
- Set Up Account Alerts: Take advantage of our account alert features to receive notifications of transactions, login attempts, and balance changes. This allows you to react quickly if something seems off.
- Report Suspicious Activity Immediately: If you notice any unauthorized transactions or suspect that your account has been compromised, contact our Fraud Team immediately.
Staying Informed
- Stay Updated on Security Practices: Cyber threats are constantly evolving, and so should your knowledge. Regularly visit our Online Security Resource Center for updates on the latest security tips and threats.
- Educate Yourself on Common Scams: Familiarize yourself with common scams, such as phishing, vishing (voice phishing), and smishing (SMS phishing). Knowing what to look out for can help you avoid falling victim to these schemes.
Our Commitment to You
- At Union Savings Bank, we use state-of-the-art security measures to protect your information. Our systems are continually monitored and updated to defend against emerging threats. However, your vigilance is also crucial. By following these security guidelines and staying informed, you play a vital role in keeping your accounts safe.
If you ever have questions or concerns about your security, please don’t hesitate to contact us at (800) 582-9702. We’re here to help you every step of the way.
Phishing
Phishing is a common tactic used by criminals to steal personal information and commit identity theft. In a phishing attack, the perpetrator poses as a legitimate organization and sends you a fraudulent email designed to trick you into revealing sensitive information. These emails often direct you to a fake website that closely mimics the real one, where you are prompted to enter details such as your username, password, account number, name, address, or phone number. Once entered, this information is captured and stored by the criminal, who can then use it to impersonate you and commit fraud. To learn more about phishing and how to protect yourself, visit the Anti-Phishing Working Group (APWG) website.
Tips to Keep Yourself Safe from Identity Theft
- Think before you click! Never click a link in an email. Instead, type the website address in the address bar of your browser.
- Check your bank and credit card accounts often to identify suspicious activity.
- Check your credit report regularly to identify suspicious activity.
- Report suspicious activity immediately to the proper authorities.
- Never give out account numbers, PIN numbers, credit/debit card numbers, usernames, passwords, or Social Security numbers to anyone you have not personally contacted.