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Protect Yourself Against Fraud

December 7

More and more, you hear about credit and debit card fraud in the news. There has been a lot of card fraud in the greater Connecticut area recently. I’d like to take the time to remind everyone of all the ways you can help keep yourself protected.

e-Alerts

The fastest and easiest way to keep tabs on your account is to set up e-Alerts. This service sends you electronic notices when different events take place on your account. You can choose to receive the alerts by email or text message. Setting up notices for your debit and credit card transactions will help keep you protected by providing you with real-time alerts. You can set up alerts for all other activity, including direct deposits, automatic withdrawals, loan payments, low balance alerts, overdraft alerts, and much more!

Apple Pay

Apple Pay is a payment technology you can use right on your Apple iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus, iPad Air 2, iPad Mini 3, or Apple Watch. Access your credit and debit cards right through your phone. Apple Pay is becoming more and more popular and is available at a growing list of retailers. Your card information is never shared with the retailer. Instead, your phone utilizes a one-time, randomly generated ID number called a “token” to process your payment. You never have to worry about someone using this technology, it requires your thumbprint!

EMV Chip Technology

As your Nutmeg credit card expires, we will reissue it with the new EMV chip technology. This chip is more secure than your standard magnetic stripe on the card’s back. Your information is secure during your transactions at various retail locations. The only difference for you is inserting your card into the machine instead of swiping. It’s fast and easy. Most importantly, it keeps your information private from the retailer, its employees and any potential safety breach. All retailers will be required to use this technology in the future.

PIN Transactions

Many merchants (especially gas stations) are requiring debit card users to use a PIN instead of a signature. Much of the recent fraud has been non-PIN transactions, so don’t be alarmed if you’re forced to enter your PIN to use your debit card at some retail locations.

If you find a fraudulent charge on your card, be sure to contact the credit union or call the number on the back of the card right away. As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to call us Monday – Friday 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. and Saturday 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. at 800.526.6933.

Sincerely,

John Holt
President/CEO