Online Security Tips

At Union Square Credit Union, multiple security layers ensure member financial information is safe and secure, and our encryption systems are constantly monitored and updated. However, Internet security does not rely on technology alone. Ultimately, when dealing with spyware, viruses, and computer hackers, members play a vital role in protecting the security of their own systems.

To support our members’ individual security efforts, Union Square Credit Union offers several straightforward security tips. We highly recommend our members take the following steps to protect themselves and their systems:

• Keep your computer up to date with the latest patches for known vulnerabilities:
  For Windows users, open your browser, and go to “Tools.” Click on “Windows Update,” and follow the instructions on downloading the latest patches.

• Make sure your computer has the most current anti-virus software and run it regularly.
  Anti-virus software needs frequent updates to guard against new viruses. We recommend that you use a program that automatically upgrades your virus protection on a regular basis. If you currently do not have this automatic upgrade feature, make sure you update your virus detection program weekly and when you hear of a new virus.

• Run anti-spyware software to remove any spyware from your computer.
  If your anti-virus product doesn’t include spyware protection, we recommend that you install a reputable spyware detection product as well. Many commercially available anti-virus software packages can detect adware/spyware programs on your computer. If detected, you should remove them immediately. (Pop-up ads are indications that adware/spyware is most likely running on your machine). One such award-winning software program can be downloaded free at safer-networking.org.

• Install a personal firewall to help prevent unauthorized access to your home computer.
  This is especially important if you connect to the Internet via a cable modem or a digital subscriber line (DSL) modem. For information about anti-virus and anti-spyware software and personal firewalls, we suggest you check with your ISP’s or computer manufacturer’s website.

• Use a strong password and change it often.
  Choose passwords that are difficult for others to guess and use a different password for each of your online accounts. Use both letters and numbers as well as a combination of lower case and capital letters. Change your password every 3 or 4 months.

• Don't reply to any email that requests your personal information.
  Be very suspicious of any email from a business or person that asks for your password, Social Security number, or other highly sensitive information. Also beware of any email that sends you personal information and asks you to update or confirm it.

• Leave suspicious sites.
  If you suspect that a website is not what it purports to be, leave the site immediately. Do not follow any of the instructions it presents. For Microsoft Internet Explorer (IE) users, setting your browser security setting to "high," a level that makes it more difficult to interact with some websites, is also recommended.

• Be alert for scam emails.
  These may appear to come from a trusted business or friend, but actually are designed to trick you into downloading a virus or linking to a fraudulent website and disclosing sensitive information.

• Open emails only when you know the sender.
  Be especially careful about opening an email with an attachment. We advise you to not open attachments unless you are confident that you can trust the source.

• Do not send sensitive personal or financial information unless it is encrypted on a secure website.
  Regular emails are not encrypted and are more like sending a post card. Anyone can read it. Look for the padlock symbol to ensure that the site is running in secure mode before you enter confidential personal information.
• Act quickly if you suspect fraud.
  If you believe someone is trying to commit fraud and/or if you think you may have provided personal or account information in response to a fraudulent email or website, report the incident immediately, change your passwords and monitor your account activity frequently.