Fall into Safe Spending Habits

As the leaves turn and the days get shorter, it’s a great time to prepare for the busy months ahead. Fraud tends to spike during the holiday season, so taking steps now can help you shop and spend with confidence later.

1. Shop Smart. As holiday sales begin, fraudsters ramp up fake websites, ads, and emails that look legitimate but are designed to steal your info. Always shop from brands you know or have researched, and avoid clicking on random ads or pop-ups on social media.

2. Keep Your Personal Info Secure. If you receive unexpected calls, texts, or emails asking for account numbers, passwords, or passcodes, pause and verify the source. Your credit union will never request this information by phone or email.

3. Use Protected Payment Methods: Choose debit or credit cards with fraud protection, or use mobile wallets that encrypt your information for extra security.

4. Monitor Before the Rush: Set up account alerts. Starting now helps you spot suspicious activity quickly before the busy holiday season.

A little prevention this fall can mean a safer and more enjoyable holiday season.