Proper internet security can help protect you from fraud. Stay safer with these tips to help protect you online.

As your options for banking and purchasing online grow, so does your need to safeguard your privacy and security while using the internet on your personal computer, tablet or mobile device. Online security can be as simple as frequently reviewing your bank accounts to stay on top of things and making sure you report any fraudulent transactions promptly. But what else should you do to stay safe online or when using a mobile device?

USECU will never ask for your personal information via email or text message. If you have received a suspicious email, text, or phone call, please do not provide any personal information, and call a USECU member service representative directly at 713-595-3400.

The following online security tips can help you protect you while conducting business online.

1. Use strong passwords for all your accounts. A strong password (one that is not easily guessed by a human or computer) will have 8 or more characters, including letters, numbers and symbols. Make sure to use different user IDs and passwords for your financial accounts and for any other sites you use online, and change them frequently.
2. Don’t use any part of your Social Security number (or any other sensitive info, like a credit card number) as a password, user ID or personal identification number (PIN). If someone gains access to this information, it will be among the first things they use to try to get into your account.
3. Don’t respond to emails that claim to be from your credit union (or any other company) requesting your account details. A legitimate company is never likely to approach you this way to ask for personal information.
4. Be wary of email attachments and free software from unknown sources. You could end up exposing your computer (and the information on it) to online fraud and theft.
5. Be mindful of how much personal information you share on social networking sites. The more you post about yourself, the easier it might be for someone to use the information you post to access your accounts, steal your identity and more. Maximizing your privacy settings on social networking sites can also help protect your personal information.
6. Secure your smartphone with a screen lock. Many mobile devices give you the option of locking your screen with a password, helping you keep the data on your smartphone secure.
7. Keep sensitive personal information and account numbers and passwords off your phone. USECU offers a secure mobile app without having to expose your account information or passwords.
8. Keep your computer operating system, your internet browser and your mobile device software up to date with the latest security patches. Also, be sure to use anti-virus and anti-spyware software. They help find and remove viruses and spyware that can steal your information.

By following these security tips, you can help protect your personal information and help prevent it from getting into the wrong hands. Please call us immediately at 713.595.3400 if you suspect information related to your account has been compromised.