Scammers are getting smarter — but protecting your money doesn’t have to be complicated. A few simple habits can help you stay one step ahead and keep your accounts secure.
Online fraud is a growing problem. From fake texts to phishing emails, fraudsters are targeting everyday people managing busy lives, multiple accounts, and growing financial goals. If you’re building credit, managing debt, or planning for your family’s future, clicking the wrong link or sharing sensitive information could set you back.
The good news: Small, consistent actions can make a big difference. Consider these online fraud protection tips. These are the essential starting points you need if you’re learning how to protect your bank account online.
Never Share One-Time Passcodes — Ever
What are one-time passcodes? Often called OTPs, these are one time temporary security codes sent to you to confirm it’s really you. They are designed to protect you. Unfortunately, fraudsters will try to fool you to get yours. Don’t fall for it. If someone asks for your code — even if they claim to be your financial institution — it’s a scam.
Remember: Your financial institution will never reach out to you and ask for your passcode, PIN, or password. When you call UFCU Member Services directly though, you can expect them to generate a passcode and ask you to share it so they can verify your identity.
2. Think Before You Click
Fraud often starts with urgency—“Act now!” or “Your account is locked.” Carefully read your messages and take a moment to pause before clicking links in emails or texts. It takes practice to learn how to spot a scam message. Look for bad grammar or spelling mistakes. When in doubt, go directly to the official website instead of using the link provided.
3. Use Strong, Unique Passwords
If you’re wondering how to prevent online banking fraud, the best place to start is by not reusing the same passwords across multiple accounts. Reusing passwords makes it easier for fraudsters to access multiple accounts. It’s best to create a long passphrase. Length is better than complexity because it’s easier for most people to remember personal phrases and harder for bad actors to crack. Follow these best practices:
- Create long, unique, with a strong mix of letters, numbers, and symbols.
- Do not use passwords across multiple sites.
- Consider using a trusted password manager to create and store unique passwords securely.
- Where available, features like biometrics or passkeys can offer even stronger protection.
4. Turn On Account Alerts and Monitoring
Real-time alerts can help you catch suspicious activity early. With digital banking tools, you can:
- Track transactions instantly
- Get notified of unusual activity
- Take action quickly if something looks off
Learn more about protecting your accounts at UFCU Security Center.
5. Avoid Public WiFi for Financial Transactions
Public networks are convenient, but not secure. When you need to check your accounts, use a secure, private connection or switch to your mobile data network. (It’s usually okay to use a secure connection like your mobile hotspot.)
6. Keep Your Devices Updated
Updates aren’t just about new features. They fix security vulnerabilities. Make sure you leverage the built in security features on your device(s) and install reputable security software when appropriate for your platform:
- Update your phone and computer regularly.
- Use trusted apps only.
- Install antivirus protection when possible.
7. Review Your Accounts Regularly
A quick check can prevent a bigger problem. Check often and pay close attention to the following red flags:
- Unknown transactions
- Changes to your account or profile details
- Login alerts from unfamiliar devices
The earlier you spot fraud, the easier it is to resolve.
How UFCU Helps Protect You
Your security is our top priority. That’s why UFCU offers tools designed to help you stay in control:
- Debit and credit card protections to monitor and manage spending
- Digital banking security features like alerts and secure login tools
- Mobile access so you can check your accounts anytime, anywhere
These tools work together to help you catch issues early and protect your financial progress.
Take the Next Steps to Protect Your Money
Fraud prevention starts with awareness, but it doesn’t stop there. Take action to safeguard your accounts:
Sign up to receive account alerts via email or text message from UFCU to stay up-to-date on your accounts and credit cards. Log into Online Banking or the Mobile app and follow these steps:
- Click the bell in the upper right corner; then click the gear.
- Select the account with alerts you want to change or cancel.
- On the list of alerts for that account, select the one to change or cancel.
- Remove notification, email, text, or all three.
- Click Save.
Adhering to these secure online banking tips can help protect everything you’re working toward. Learn more at the UFCU Security Center.
Not a UFCU Member yet? Explore our accounts, then open an account to access secure digital banking tools.
Visit the UFCU Security Center to learn more about how we protect your accounts — and how you can protect yourself.