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5 Tips for Protecting Your Finances in the New Year

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The start of a new year is the perfect time to take control of your finances, including protecting your finances from fraud. Scammers and cybercriminals are constantly finding new ways to access personal and financial information, but a few simple precautions can make a big difference. By staying informed and adopting safe banking habits, you can keep your accounts secure and start the year with peace of mind.

  1. Update your passwords and use two-factor authentication

A strong password is your first line of defense against fraud. Use unique, complex passwords for each of your accounts and avoid easily guessable information, such as birthdays or common words. Consider using a password manager to store and generate strong passwords securely. Adding two-factor authentication whenever possible provides an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification, such as a code sent to your phone or email, before anyone can access your account. Together, these practices make it much harder for scammers or identity thieves to gain access to your personal and financial information.

  1. Watching scams and suspicious activities

Scammers are constantly evolving their tactics to obtain your personal information. Oftentimes, they use urgent messages to trick people into giving sensitive information. These may come in the form of phone calls, emails, or texts that appear to be from trusted sources. Remember, your credit union will never contact you unexpectedly to request sensitive details such as passwords, one-time codes, or full card numbers. Regularly reviewing your account activity is one of the simplest ways to catch fraud early. Watch for unfamiliar or small transactions, which can be an early sign of suspicious activity. If something doesn’t look right, contact your credit union right away so we can help protect your account and act quickly.

  1. Take advantage of Credit Union tools and resources

At Eastex, we’re committed to helping you keep your finances safe. Our online and mobile banking platforms include multi-factor authentication, adding an extra layer of protection against fraud and identity theft. Beyond technology, you have access to personalized support. If you ever notice suspicious activity or suspect fraud, our team is ready to guide you step by step to help secure your account and report any issues. By using these tools and staying connected with your credit union, you can protect your information and enjoy greater peace of mind.

  1. Secure your devices and Wi-Fi

Keeping your devices and internet connections secure is a key part of protecting your financial information. Scammers not only send calls and texts, but they can also try to access your stuff through public Wi-Fi. Avoid accessing financial accounts over public Wi-Fi, as these networks can be less secure. If you must connect, use a trusted, password-protected network or a secure hotspot. You can never add too many layers of protection when it comes to your finances.

  1. Report issues immediately

If you notice suspicious activity or believe your information may have been compromised, report it right away. Acting quickly helps limit potential losses and allows your credit union to take steps to secure your account. Prompt reporting gives us the best chance to protect your finances and resolve issues efficiently. Call us at (409) 276-2525 if you suspect any fraudulent activity.  

Stay protected with Eastex Credit Union

Everything is digital, and it’s essential to have your information secure. If you don’t take the necessary steps to ensure your safety, it’s more likely that your personal information can be accessed. Everyone at Eastex Credit Union cares about keeping your accounts safe. We want you to be able to bank securely so your information is protected. That’s why our online banking offers multi-factor authentication, and your deposits are always safely insured up to $250,000 per account. For more questions about your Eastex Credit Union account features, or for tips to keep your accounts safe, stop by an Eastex CU branch or give us a call.
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