With more and more instances of fraud on the rise it is important that you minimize your risks by managing your personal information wisely.

 

The best defense against fraud begins with you, and one of the best ways to protect yourself is to become familiar with how fraudsters operate.

 

Protect your personal information

• One of the best things you can do to protect your accounts is to review your information online regularly, and confirm all transactions are correct.
• Limit where your email address is used to decrease spam and the possibility you'll receive a phishing email .
• Do not input personal information, user names or passwords at public computers unless you are certain the computer's preferences have been set up correctly, and haven't been infected with a virus or spyware.
• Keep your statements, checques, etc. in a safe (locked) place.

Know who you are dealing with

• Never give out personal information over the phone. Fraudsters have been known to call homes pretended to be employees of the credit union. Employees would never ask for sensitive information over the phone or ever ask you to access anything from your account online. Don't be afraid to ask questions to ensure you are actually speaking with an employee of the credit union.
• Never reply to email or pop-up messages asking for your personal or financial information; never click on a link in a message you are unfamiliar with.
• When accessing a website referenced in an email or online, be sure that you know the e-mail sender and the website noted. If you are unsure, do not click a link. Instead, retype the website address in your browser to access the site directly.

Make sure your systems are set up properly and updated

• Use a firewall if you access the Internet by cable or broadband.
• Use regularly updated anti-virus and anti-spyware software.
• Make sure your wireless network is set up correctly. Read your user manual and don't assume the default settings are protecting you.

Passwords

• The importance of picking a good, secure password can't be emphasized enough. The simpler a password format is, the easier it is for someone to figure out.
• The best passwords are a combination of numbers, special characters, and upper and lowercase letters.
• Do not write your password anywhere. A password you write down is as good as having no password at all.
• Change your passwords often.

Report Suspicious Activity
If you suspect your ATM card, cheques, or credit card have been lost, stolen, or compromised you should report this information to DUCA immediately. You should also contact us immediately if you receive suspicious email messages appearing to come from DUCA.