Back to Basics: 5 Steps You Can Take to Stop Fraud in its Tracks

August 15, 2023

By K-Staff

Fraud, Insighter

Identity theft and online fraud are more prevalent today than ever, with over 5.7 million reports submitted to the Federal Trade Commission in 2022 – up nearly 1 million from the previous year. Total losses from these cases are estimated to be over $10 billion, roughly double the last year’s report of $6.9 billion – and with the median loss to victims coming in at $500, online fraud is growing in impact daily.

Kirtland CU and VISA have safeguards to prevent unauthorized access to your accounts. Here are some steps you can take to avoid becoming a victim of fraud.

1. Set account and credit card alerts

Kirtland CU Online and Mobile Banking have powerful account alert functionality available for your convenience. Set alerts for when your balance goes below a specific level or when a withdrawal is made over a specific level – we offer over 20 customizable alerts for your share accounts, so you are immediately informed of account activity.

You can also stay on top of your Kirtland CU VISA® Credit Card through VISA Purchase Alerts – set up text or email alerts for purchases over a set amount, declined transactions, and international transactions, and rest easy knowing you’ll be the first to know if anything does happen with your card.

2. Set a code word for your KCU account

You have passwords to secure your online and mobile banking accounts, but did you know you can also set a code word to confirm your account over the telephone or in-branch?

Call our Member Contact Center at 1.800.880.5328 or visit any of our branches to set a code word, and any fraudster who tries to compromise your account over the phone or in person will be stopped in their tracks!

3. Don't share account information

NEVER share your credit card, bank account, or personal information with anyone who isn’t an authorized signer on your account – even if it’s someone you trust.

Kirtland Credit Union will never call, text, or email you asking for this information or any means of accessing your accounts. If you receive any communication claiming to be from KCU, don’t reply – hang up and call us at 1.800.880.5328. We’re happy to help ensure your accounts are secure.

4. Use online and mobile banking to track your accounts

You don’t need to wait for your statement to arrive in the mail or in Online Banking with Online Statements – use online and mobile banking to monitor your account activity routinely.

Using alerts to track account activity provides the most immediate notice when something is amiss but having the freedom to check your accounts anywhere with online banking or our mobile banking app lets you live confident in your financial security.

5. Do not reuse passwords

It’s easy to fall back on easy-to-remember passwords to access the myriad accounts we have set up online – but fraudsters are counting on that complacency. If one of your commonly-used passwords is compromised in a data breach, any account that uses that password is now at risk of being accessed without your permission.

Avoid this hazard by using a different password for each website you access. Modern browsers can automatically generate and save strong passwords, so you don’t have to remember anything.

Additionally, multi-factor authentication is great added security – Kirtland CU Online and Mobile Banking already have this option available. MFA provides a one-time passcode via email, text message, or phone call to complete your login process. Do not give your one-time passcodes to anyone – remember, KCU will never contact you asking for this information.

Finally, the most crucial step in avoiding fraud is staying vigilant. Keeping tabs on your account and personal information is critical in limiting your exposure to potential fraud and identity theft. If you have any questions or concerns, call our Member Contact Center or visit any of our branches – we’re here to serve you!

If you think you are a victim of identity theft or a scam:

1. Contact KCU immediately at 1.800.880.5328.
2. Contact one of the 3 credit bureau agencies and place a fraud alert or credit freeze. (That credit bureau must notify the other two.) Review your credit report and dispute derogative credit with a credit bureau agency.
  - Equifax 1.800.685.1111
  - Experian 1.888.397.3742
  - Transunion 1.888.909.8872
3. Report Scams: To report a scam, submit a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission or contact your state attorney general’s office to report the scam. (National Association of Attorneys General provides contact information of each state attorney general.)
4. Contact your local police or sheriff’s office.
Remember, if something doesn’t seem right, you can always hang up or walk away. Scammers want you to make a quick decision. Slow down, do your own research about the offer, or consult with someone you trust.

Welcome To The Insighter!

Back to Basics: 5 Steps You Can Take to Stop Fraud in its Tracks

1. Set account and credit card alerts

2. Set a code word for your KCU account

3. Don't share account information

4. Use online and mobile banking to track your accounts

5. Do not reuse passwords

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