Stay Safe with Fraud Prevention Resources
At Community 1st Credit Union, we are dedicated to safeguarding your financial information and empowering you with the knowledge to protect yourself from fraud.
The key to fighting fraud is understanding what to watch for and knowing how to take action. That’s why we’ve created this library of educational resources, tips, and valuable information to help you stay informed. Together, we can fight fraud and protect what matters most.
How C1st Protects You
We use multiple layers of security in Digital Banking to keep your accounts safe. Please note, C1st will never ask for your secure access code. Please do not share your code with anyone.
- Alerts: Get notified when your account is accessed on a new device, when security settings change, or when unusual activity occurs. Learn more!
- Multi-Factor Authentication: Additional verification in digital banking helps ensure only you can access your account.
- eStatements: Reduce the risk of mail theft by switching to secure eStatements.
- Debit Card Controls: Instantly lock or unlock your card in Digital Banking if it’s lost, stolen, or compromised due to fraud. Learn more!
- Credit Monitoring: Access your credit report and score anytime in C1st's digital banking to track changes and catch suspicious activity early. Enroll today!
How You Can Stay Safe
- Use Strong Passwords
Create unique passwords with a mix of characters, and consider using a password manager to keep them secure.
- Enable Multi-Factor Authentication
Set up multi-factor authentication in digital banking. When you log in, you’ll be asked to verify yourself via text message or email.
- Protect Personal Information
C1st will never call you and ask for your username, password, card details, account numbers, or Secure Access Codes. Never share sensitive information by phone, email, or text unless you’re certain of the requester’s identity.
- Go Paperless with eStatements
Enroll in eStatements to reduce the risk of mail fraud and keep your information protected.
- Set Up Digital Banking Alerts
Enable transaction and activity alerts in C1st Digital Banking. If you encounter anything unfamiliar, please contact us immediately.
- Monitor Your Accounts & Credit
Review your statements regularly and check your credit report to catch any unauthorized activity early.
- Keep Your Contact Information Current
Ensure your phone number, email, and address are up to date so you never miss important alerts.
Common Scams to Watch For
Fraudsters use many tactics to obtain personal or financial information. Here are some of the most common:
- Identity Theft: Using your personal information to commit fraud.
- Debt Collection Scams: Fake collectors demanding payment for debts you don’t owe.
- Check Fraud: Fake checks, overpayment schemes, and “secret shopper” scams.
- Phishing: Emails or texts that attempt to steal information or install malware.
- Social Security Scams: Imposters posing as government officials demanding immediate payment.
COMMON SCAMS
How to Report Fraud
If you suspect you’ve been the victim of a scam, please contact C1st immediately via live chat or call (866) 360-5370. You can also report it to your state attorney general and the Federal Communications Commission.