First Federal Credit Union

Member Security Awareness

Card Skimming at ATMs & Gas Pump

Skimmers are illegal card readers inserted in the card slots at ATMs or Gas Pumps by thieves to steal the data off credit or debit card's magnetic strip without you knowing.  The data stolen is used to buy things online or its sold to others for other fraudulent uses.  Some helpful tips to identify skimmers. 

  • Try to wiggle the card reader before inserting your card. It should not be able to be pulled out.
  • Look for any small holes around the key pad area that could possibly have a camera to capture your PIN
  • Run debit cards at gas pumps as credit, this way your PIN is safe and money is not deducted from your account immediately. 
  • Monitor your account regularly to spot any unauthorized charges.

 

8 Ways to Stop an Identity Thief

More than 15.4 million Americans were victims of identity fraud last year, according to Javelin Strategy & Research. Here are tips to prevent fraud from happening to you:

  1. Don’t share your secrets. Don’t provide your Social Security number or account information to anyone who contacts you online or over the phone. Protect your PINs and passwords and do not share them with anyone. Use a combination of letters and numbers for your passwords and change them periodically. Do not reveal sensitive or personal information on social networking sites.
  2. Shred sensitive papers. Shred receipts, banks statements and unused credit card offers before throwing them away.
  3. Keep an eye out for missing mail. Fraudsters look for monthly bank or credit card statements and other mail containing your financial information. Consider enrolling in online banking to reduce the likelihood of paper statements being stolen. Also, don’t mail bills from your own mailbox with the flag up.
  4. Use online banking to protect yourself. Monitor your financial accounts regularly for fraudulent transactions. Sign up for text or email alerts from your bank for certain types of transactions, such as online purchases or transactions of more than $500.
  5. Monitor your credit report. Order a free copy of your credit report every four months from one of the three credit reporting agencies at annualcreditreport.com. Annual Credit Report
  6. Protect your computer. Make sure the virus protection software on your computer is active and up to date. When conducting business online, make sure your browser’s padlock or key icon is active. Also look for an “s” after the “http” to be sure the website is secure.
  7. Protect your mobile device. Use the passcode lock on your smartphone and other devices. This will make it more difficult for thieves to access your information if your device is lost or stolen. Before you donate, sell or trade your mobile device, be sure to wipe it using specialized software or using the manufacturer’s recommended technique. Some software allows you to wipe your device remotely if it is lost or stolen. Use caution when downloading apps, as they may contain malware and avoid opening links and attachments – especially for senders you don’t know.
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