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Avoid Online Scams

Here are some important reminders to help you safeguard your First Entertainment Credit Union accounts, and together, we'll outsmart scammers!

  • We will never call/text/email you for your username, password, PIN, or a one-time passcode.
  • If someone is claiming to be from First Entertainment and requests money to fix an account issue, don’t do it.
  • Bookmark firstent.org on all devices so you always navigate to our official site.
  • Use our digital banking and mobile app to remain updated on your balances.
  • Set up fraud alerts and email/text notifications on your accounts.
  • Use strong passwords, change them often, and never share them.
  • Register with AnnualCreditReport.com, which is free, and set fraud alerts.

If you have questions about online security and your accounts, please call 888.800.3328 or send us a Secure Message.

 

Here’s How We Are Protecting Your Account Information

We have multiple safeguards in place that meet or exceed required regulations to protect your money and personal information. Our network is continually monitored to ensure it is performing at the optimum level of protection. Here are some additional methods we use:

  • 256-bit encryption of data.
  • Unique username to provide authentication.
  • Multi-factor authentication to verify you’re using our official website.
  • Session timeouts when there is no activity for several minutes.
  • Date/time stamp visibility so you can confirm your history of sign-ins.
  • Numerous secure firewalls protect our digital banking and deter unauthorized network access.
  • Secure Message Center lets you answer security questions privately via digital banking.
  • How to Use Zelle® Safely and Avoid Payment Scams

    Zelle® and other popular digital payment apps make sending or receiving money convenient. But criminals are taking advantage of the platform to scam people into sending them money.

    Here are a few tips to protect yourself and your money when using peer-to-peer digital payment services like Zelle®:

    1. Treat Zelle® like cash. Zelle® does not offer a protection program for authorized transactions that turn out to be fraudulent, and once you hand over payment, it is difficult or impossible to get it back. 
    2. Send money only to people you trust. Never send money to any stranger who contacts you through social media, claims to be from a government agency or First Entertainment, or asks you to send money to yourself.
    3. Never share your log-in credentials. Refrain from sharing your Digital Banking user ID or password with anyone under any circumstances.
    4. Double-check your payment details. If you erroneously send money to the wrong person or in the incorrect amount, or as a part of a scam, it may be impossible to get back.
    5. Use unique credentials. Protect your account by using a unique password within the First Entertainment mobile app. It is easier to use one password across many apps, but that heightens your vulnerability.
    6. Get familiar with the interface. Zelle® is primarily used for quick payments, and when you use it for the first time, you may make errors. Practice using the service by sending and receiving $1 with a trusted family member or friend.
    7. Raise a red flag on urgent payment requests. Sense-of-urgency and scare tactics are major red flags, such as a caller claiming to be from a company you do business with and threatening to shut off service if you don’t make a payment immediately.
    8. Protect your account. If your phone has been lost or stolen or if you notice suspicious activity with your online accounts, contact First Entertainment Member Services at 888.800.3328. 
  • Beware of these current Zelle® Scams
    1. Fake Fraud Alerts Texts Verifying Zelle®. Recently, some members have reported receiving fraud alert texts regarding Zelle® transactions. This alert is not from the credit union. It is coming from fraudsters impersonating us to acquire members’ online banking information. If successful, they may use Zelle® to begin sending money from the members’ accounts to their account.
    2. Depositing Checks from Unknown Sources. Fraudsters ask for a check to be deposited into your account and promise you can keep some of the money. The checks are often counterfeit and will be returned by the financial institution even after funds were made available.
    3. Requests for Personal Account Information: Scammers may mimic an account alert via email or text or call and pose as a First Entertainment employee so they can gain information like passwords or one-time passcodes and access your account.
    4. Offering an Item for Sale Online. Cyber criminals may offer something for sale and then ask for money to be sent as a deposit or for shipping and processing fees.
    5. Online Job Postings. Fraudsters may advertise false opportunities on job boards or social media. They will then send applicants a bad check to be deposited into their account. The fraudsters then request that a portion of the funds be immediately returned due to overpayment or for supplies, etc. The check is usually returned as fraudulent.
    6. Lottery Schemes. Fraudsters claim that they have won the lottery and offer to share a portion of the winnings if you to pay a processing fee or send a portion of funds back after using the same check deposit scheme above.

    Zelle Emotional Scare Tactics
    In these scenarios, scammers create fake stories to drive an emotional reaction, such as:

    • Excitement: People often enter and win sweepstakes. Scammers will say you need to pay a fee before they can send your prize.

    • Fear: Taxpayers sometimes owe money to the IRS, but the IRS doesn’t accept payments via Zelle®.
    • Compassion: Friends and relatives sometimes ask for money. It’s a major red flag when someone pressures you to keep the transaction a secret.
  • Avoid Debit Card/Credit Card Scams

    We are aware that some members receive text messages and calls that appear to be originated from First Entertainment's phone number. These notifications ask the recipient to verify a recent transaction that supposedly occurred on their debit card account. Once the cardholder replies to the message, the member receives a follow-up phone call asking them to provide their full or partial credit or debit card number, card expiration date, CVV code, PIN, and/or online banking login information.

    Please note, these messages are NOT from First Entertainment. We recommend that you NEVER provide your personal or account information to anyone in circumstances where you did not initiate the communication.

    First Entertainment Credit Union has a Fraud Prevention Service that monitors debit card transactions 24/7. So, you may receive an email, text, or phone call to verify transactions. Our Fraud Prevention Service phone number is 866.602.8209. It is the only number used to verify transactions on a debit card, not for reporting a card lost/stolen.

    Help us Protect You

    • First Entertainment's Fraud Prevention Services will never ask for your PIN, Account Number, CVV code, SSN, or online banking credentials.
    • A text message from our fraud alert system will come from a 5-digit number, not a 10-digit number resembling a legitimate phone number.
    • Our text message verification system will ask you only to reply Yes or No when asked if you recognize your account's transaction.
    • It will not include a link to a website.
    • If we need to speak with you, we will ask you to call us at 866.602.8209 to speak with an agent who can assist you. An email from our Fraud Alert System will come from noreply@cardfraudalerts.com. The email may ask you to respond to whether a charge is legitimate by selecting one of two options.
  • Safe Online Banking with First Entertainment Credit Union

    Whether you visit one of our branches, use our ATMs, or choose to experience the freedom and convenience of banking online, at First Entertainment Credit Union, our goal is to provide you with the best all-around banking experience.

    To ensure that your finances are as safe as possible, we secure all of our online services. But what you do to help secure your finances is just as important. When you choose to have the freedom and convenience that comes with putting First Entertainment at your fingertips, there are some extra safety precautions that we suggest you put in place to protect yourself from viruses or cyber attacks:

    • Information about your electronic transactions is provided within your monthly statements. To protect your accounts, we encourage you to regularly review your statements and account activity. Immediately notify First Entertainment Credit Union at 888-800-3328 of any error or unauthorized transactions.
    • Keep an eye on your accounts online. Be sure to report anything that appears to be suspicious.
    • If you suspect your First Entertainment accounts, user names, passwords, or Personal Identification Numbers (PINs) have been compromised, contact the Credit Union immediately at 888.800.3328 and change your passwords.

    Secure Your Home Wireless Network

    • Change the factory-default services set identifier (SSID) from the wireless manufacturers default value. Intruders can access your network by using the known and commonly used default settings, which are published on the Internet.
    • Do not share or communicate your SSID setting.
    • Enable encryption: Wireless Protected Access – Pre-Shared Key (WPA-PSK) is the suggested encryption method for the home network.
    • Use a software firewall on all devices connected to your network – computers and tablets. Prevent cyber attacks by enabling the personal firewall that came with your operating system; or, buy and install a separate personal firewall.
    • Limit access to shared files and folders on your computers and tablets; set passwords on file shares and provide access only to authenticated users.
    • More seasoned computer users may want to consider using a bootable operating system when conducting online transactions. You could configure a bootable system on a USB Flash Drive with only the services and applications needed to perform financial transactions with First Entertainment Credit Union. When you need to access the online banking system to initiate electronic fund transfers, you would boot the "read-only" system on a USB Flash Drive attached to your computer. Any malware or spyware that may exist on your hard drive would not impact you in this scenario.

    Secure Your Home Computer's Software

    • Install real-time updated anti-virus and anti-spyware software on your computer.
    • Allow for automatic scanning and updates of all anti-virus and anti-spyware.
    • Run anti-virus software on your computer after using a public Internet site or unsecured wireless connection.

    Install Security Updates to Your Operating System and All Applications

    • Keep your computer operating system up-to-date by allowing all updates on your security system to run.
    • Install the latest software patches for your web browser (Firefox, Chrome, Safari, etc.).

    Adopt Safe Email Practices

    • Do not follow a link to a site through an email and then proceed to enter personal information, such as account numbers or passwords.
    • To secure your transactions, open a new browser window and enter the URL of the trusted site.
    • Do not open links or attachments contained in emails from unfamiliar sources.
    • Beware of questionable emails: What look suspiciously like legitimate bank/credit union emails with legitimate logos and structured to look like the communications you typically receive from First Entertainment Credit Union, can be fake emails that direct you to questionable Internet addresses. Read carefully, and watch for incorrect spellings and poor grammar; and NEVER enter your password or personal information.
    • Always delete emails with account-sensitive information, even if they contain only partial account identification information.

    Create and Maintain Strong Passwords and PINs

    • Don't ever share your password or write it down.
    • Make your passwords more secure by using the following combinations:
    • Use a combination of letters and numbers. Typically, use a password that is at least 8 and not more than 20 characters, and use upper and lower-case letters.
    • Do not use any obvious information as a password such as: zip code, year of birth, phone numbers, address, relative's name, pet's name or nicknames. And never use personal information, such as your Social Security number as a password.
    • Do not click on the "Remember Me" option and avoid using password managers.
    • Use individual passwords for each site.
    • Change your passwords every 30 to 60 days.
    • Choose to protect your other electronic devices such as tablets and phones from unauthorized access with passwords as well.

    Practice Safe Computing

    • Avoid using public computers when conducting any online banking transactions.
    • Do not have multiple browsers open while banking online.
    • Never leave your online banking account open while your computer is unattended.
    • Always sign out (log off) after your online banking session and close out of your browser.
    • Do not share any of your banking information to any other party or website.
    • Consider using a dedicated computer for daily online banking activity.
    • Disable file sharing software to prevent unauthorized users from accessing your computer.
    • Be cautious about accessing sites if you are online through an unsecured or unprotected network.
    • When banking and shopping online, check to make sure the site is security enabled: look for the web addresses with "https:// or shttp://", which means the site takes extra measures to help secure your information: "http://" is not secure.
    • Clear the browser cache and history before and after you make online banking transactions.

    Safeguard Your Personal Information

    • Never share any personal information, which includes: name and numbers for your Social Security account, driver's license or identification card, bank accounts, credit cards and debit cards; mother's maiden name, security codes, access codes, passwords, Personal Identification Numbers (PINs), or any information that allows identification and access to your account(s).
    • Examine your financial statements and/or account activity on all of your accounts: First Entertainment's, credit cards, and investment statements on a monthly basis.
    • Dispose of any sensitive documents by first shredding them.
  • Safe Mobile Banking with First Entertainment Credit Union

    With the predominant use of mobile banking, consumer's concerns over the safety and security issues rarely wane.

    At First Entertainment Credit Union, we constantly monitor the latest online security issues and take every precaution to secure all of our online services help protect you and your finances.

    However, the first line of defense is you and the first step is simple: don't lose your mobile devices! Their small size is greatest vulnerability. Thousands of laptops, smart phones, tablets, and USB sticks are lost at airports every year. And if your device contains personal identification information that is not secured, you are setting yourself up to be compromised. ALWAYS engage your mobile device's keypad lock when you aren't using it. And lock your laptop in public places with a security cable. You can also provide your own line of defense by following these guidelines to secure your mobile banking transactions on a tablet, phone, at an ATM, or when using your debit card:

    Practice Safe Mobile Device Usage

    DO's:

    • DO secure your mobile devices with a strong pass code to power on or to wake it from the sleep mode.
    • DO keep track of your mobile devices when you are traveling; never leave them unattended anywhere, in your car, or stored on the floor, such as in a coffee shop.

    DON'Ts:

    • DON'T store any usernames, passwords, or PINs on your mobile device.
    • DON'T modify your mobile device in any way that disables important security features.
    • DON'T enable Android's "install from unknown sources" feature on mobile devices using the Android operating system.
    • DON'T conduct any online financial transaction on an App that you are not completely certain is legitimate.
    • DON'T open links in emails that ask you to supply personal or financial information. First Entertainment WILL NEVER ask you to supply this kind of information with an email link.
    • DON'T bank online in a public setting. However, if you have no other choice, use a privacy screen protector, such as those made by 3M, and make sure to erase any personal information once finished.
    • DON'T share your password with anyone.

    Practice Safe Mobile Computing

    DO's:

    • DO use common sense when you connect: Be cautious about the sites you visit and the information you provide if you're online through an unsecured or unprotected website.
    • DO check to be sure the site is security-enabled when banking and shopping on a mobile browser. Look for web addresses with "https:// or shttp://", which means the site takes extra precautions to secure your information. "http://" is not secure for online transactions!
    • DO clear the browser's cache and history before and after using a mobile browser for an online banking session.
    • DO remain aware of your surroundings when banking on a mobile device. Avoid typing in any sensitive information if others are around and can see your screen.

    DON'Ts:

    • DON'T provide any of your banking information to any other party or website if you have reason to believe that it has an insecure connection – this includes using a connection through a public Wi-Fi service or a "hot spot," sometimes provided through another person's smartphone or personal computer.
    • DON'T conduct your mobile banking transactions on someone else's Smartphone!

    Install Real-Time Antivirus, Anti-Spyware Software and Updates

    DO's:

    • DO update the antivirus software and spyware installed on your mobile device; and, allow for automatic scanning and updates of all anti-virus and security software.
    • DO install software patches, mobile operating system updates, legitimate third-party application updates and hot fixes.
    • DO install the latest updates and/or patches for your mobile web browser.
    • DO run anti-virus software after using any public Internet or unsecured connections.

    Create and Maintain Strong Passwords and PINs

    DO's:

    • DO create passwords using a combination of letters and numbers, and combine upper and lower-case letters that are at least 8 and typically not more than 20 characters long.
    • DO create passwords that are unique to you and difficult to guess.
    • DO change your passwords every 30 to 60 days.
    • If you suspect your accounts or personal identification numbers have been compromised, report the incident to First Entertainment Credit Union at 888-800-3328 immediately and change your passwords.

    DON'Ts:

    • DON'T write down your passwords or PINs.
    • DON'T share your passwords with anyone.
    • DON'T create passwords that contain obvious information, such as your zip code, year of birth, phone numbers, address, relative's name, pet's name or nicknames – NEVER use personal information like your Social Security number.
    • DON'T use password managers and DON'T store passwords in your device when offered the "Remember Me" option.
    • DON'T use the same password for multiple devices; create unique passwords for each device.

    Safeguard Your Personal Information

    • Personal Identification information includes your name, Social Security number, driver's license number or identification card number, account number, credit card number, debit card number, mother's maiden name, security code, access code, password, Personal Identification Number (PIN) or any information that would permit access to your account(s).
    • First Entertainment Credit Union will never ask you for personal information in an email or text message.
    • Stay current at all times on the status of your accounts:
    • Examine your financial statements on a regular basis.
    • Information about electronic transactions is provided within your statements. To protect your account, notify us immediately if you see any errors or unauthorized transactions.
    • Stay on top of your transactions in between statements by signing up for Alerts that will inform you when changes have been made to your accounts.
    • If you believe your online banking PIN has been lost or stolen, if someone has used your account without your permission, or if you have provided personal information to an unknown source, immediately notify First Entertainment Credit Union at 888-800-3328.
    • Shred any documents containing any personal information prior to disposing.

    Practice Safe Wi-Fi Usage

    • Be savvy about Wi-Fi hotspots: limit the type of business you conduct on your mobile devices and adjust the security settings to limit who can access your phone.
    • Don't use public Wi-Fi networks for credit union transactions.
    • Turn off your Bluetooth connection when not in use to limit the vulnerability of your device to remote access.

    Practice Safe App Usage

    DO's:

    • DO download Apps only from trusted sources like Google Play and the Apple iTunes App Store.
    • DO review the privacy policy and understand what data the App can access on your device before you download.
    • DO download the official First Entertainment Mobile Banking App from the Google Play and the Apple iTunes App Store links on our Mobile Banking page.
    • DO always sign out of any App after you have completed your transactions.

    DON'Ts:

    • DON'T set the App, web, or client-text service to automatically log you in to your Credit Union account. If your phone is lost or stolen, someone will have access to your accounts.
    • DON'T set your banking App to auto-populate your username and password.

    Adopt Safe Email Practices

    • Whenever possible, avoid using a smartphone or tablet browser to make transactions at firstent.org. Instead, utilize the official First Entertainment Mobile Banking App found on Google Play and the Apple iTunes App Store.
    • To use a mobile device web browser to make a transaction, open a new browser window and enter the URL of the exact, trusted site.

    DO's:

    • DO be aware of questionable emails. Some may even contain legitimate looking bank/credit union logos and the information is structured to look like the official communications you receive from First Entertainment Credit Union. These questionable emails often contain grammatical or spelling errors. Delete without responding to their request for your personal identification information.
    • DO delete account sensitive emails that contain any information regarding your account activity.

    DON'Ts:

    • DON'T follow a link in your email to a web site and then enter personal information, especially personal identification information.
    • DON'T open attachments or click on links contained in emails from unfamiliar sources.

    Adopt Safe Texting Practices

    DO's:

    • DO frequently delete text messages received from First Entertainment.
    • DO verify the phone numbers that appear in a text message before you place a call or reply.
    • DO understand the criminal activity of SMShing that occurs via a SMS text message. SMShing occurs when a criminal sends out a text message encouraging you to reply with financial or personal information or to click on links that will sneak viruses onto your mobile device.

    DON'Ts:

    • DON'T respond to a text message that requests personal or financial information. Assume any unsolicited text request is fraudulent.
  • Protect your P's: Passwords, PINs and Personal Identification Information

    Financial, identity, and health care identity fraud are some of the fastest growing forms of fraud. Here's an area where you can really take charge of your own safety:

    Passwords and PINs

    Since everyone knows you should never share either your passwords or PINs with anyone, here are a few things you might not know to strengthen your defense:

    • Change your passwords frequently.
    • Create individual passwords for every device and every account.
    • Avoid common passwords, like "password", "1234", etc.
    • If you have to write down your passwords, keep them in a safe place and not readily available to your family or co-workers.

    Personal Information

    • Review and protect your credit scores: review and check your scores with each of the three credit agencies on a regular basis - Experian, Equifax, TransUnion.
    • Monitor all of your brokerage, bank, credit card statements, health insurance benefit statements, and medical bills monthly. If there is anything you don't recognize, immediately contact the appropriate institution.
    • Safeguard your documents in a lock box or locking filing cabinet in your home: store all extra checks, deposit slips, Social Security Card, canceled checks, and any credit cards you don't need to carry with you on a daily basis.
    • Safely destroy financial sensitive information by shredding old account documents – brokerage, credit cards, checking and savings account statements; old social security statements, all credit card mail offers; and all tax documents older than seven (7) years.
    • Promptly track all incoming and outgoing mail. Do not let your outgoing mail sit in your residential mailbox.
    • Track the time of month you should receive your monthly bills; if they stop arriving, be proactive in contacting the company, review your monthly statements and make sure you can account for all of the bills on your statement. Immediately alert the company of any unidentifiable purchases.
    • Report any lost or stolen credit cards and ATM cards immediately. Carry the 800 numbers of your bank and credit card company with you; never store the card numbers in your portfolio, phone, laptop, or tablet. Close accounts that you do not use.
  • Safe Computing and Email Practices

    Practicing safe computing is all about thinking ahead and taking precautions. Some of the more common safe computing and email practices include:

    Practice Safe Computing

    DO's:

    • DO sign out (log off) after your online banking session and close out of your browser.
    • DO avoid using public computers when conducting any online banking transactions.
    • DO consider using a dedicated computer for daily online banking activity.
    • DO disable file sharing software to prevent unauthorized users from accessing your computer.
    • DO be cautious about accessing sites if you are online through an unsecured or unprotected network.
    • DO make sure a banking and shopping site is security enabled when you use it: look for the web addresses with "https:// or shttp://", which means the site takes extra measures to help secure your information: "http://" is not secure.
    • DO clear the browser cache and history before and after you make online banking transactions.
    • DO avoid having multiple browsers open while banking online.

    DON'T's:

    • DON'T ever leave your online banking account open while your computer is unattended.
    • DON'T share any of your banking information to any other party or website.

    Adopt Safe Email Practices

    DO's:

    • DO open a new browser window and enter the URL of the trusted site to secure your transactions.
    • DO delete emails with account-sensitive information, even if they contain only partial account identification information.
    • DO be aware of questionable emails: What looks suspiciously like legitimate bank/credit union emails with legitimate logos and structured to look like the communications you typically receive from First Entertainment, can be fake emails that direct you to questionable Internet addresses. Read carefully, and watch for incorrect spellings and poor grammar; and NEVER enter your password or personal information.
    • DO save your attachments in the portable document format (.pdf) to be read by nearly anyone, and to safeguard your documents.
    • DO reduce your chances of picking up a computer virus by reducing the amount of SPAM:
    • Cut your vulnerability to SPAM by being cautious about where you post your email address; avoid posting them on every web site or organization that asks for it.
    • Never forward chain messages revealing coworkers' or colleagues' email addresses.
    • Avoid opening unsolicited email.
    • DO protect your coworkers' and family's email addresses by using the BCC feature; and delete their addresses before you forward an email.
    • DO reduce the chance for virus outbreaks by managing your attachments:
    • Don't attach large files to emails.
    • Limit the number of file attachments to five or less
    • Save attachments to your hard drive and then delete the email message containing the attachment.
    • Don't open unexpected attachments or those sent by unknown parties.
    • Always scan files with an anti-virus program before opening an attachment.

    DON'T's:

    • DON'T follow a link to a site through an email and then proceed to enter personal information, such as account numbers or passwords.
    • DON'T open links or attachments contained in emails from unfamiliar sources.
  • Online Banking Guidelines

    As the saying goes: An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. And what may seem like cumbersome details and paranoid practices can become those 'little things' you regret when you have been scammed or your personal identity has been compromised. Here is a list of 'little things' you can do to keep yourself safe:

    Create and Maintain Strong Passwords and PINs

    • Don't ever share your password or write it down.
    • Make your passwords more secure by using the following combinations:
    • Use a combination of letters and numbers. Typically, use a password that is at least 8 and not more than 20 characters, and use upper and lower-case letters.
    • Do not use any obvious information as a password: zip code, year of birth, phone numbers, address, relative's name, pet's name or nicknames. And never use personal information, such as your Social Security number as a password.
    • Do not click on the "Remember Me" option and avoid using password managers.
    • Use individual passwords for each site.
    • Change your passwords every 30 to 60 days.
    • Choose to protect your other electronic devices such as tablets and phones from unauthorized access with passwords as well.

    Practice Safe Computing

    • Avoid using public computers when conducting any online banking transactions.
    • Do not have multiple browsers open while banking online.
    • Never leave your online banking account open while your computer is unattended.
    • Always sign out (log off) after your online banking session and close out of your browser.
    • Do not share any of your banking information to any other party or website.
    • Consider using a dedicated computer for daily online banking activity.
    • Disable file sharing software to prevent unauthorized users from accessing your computer.
    • Be cautious about accessing sites if you are online through an unsecured or unprotected network.
    • Never use your debit card for an online purchase through a free Wi-Fi network. It is too easy for hackers and scammers to log on and steal your data.
    • When banking and shopping, check to make sure the site is security enabled: look for the web addresses with "https:// or shttp://", which means the site takes extra measures to help secure your information: "http://" is not secure.
    • Clear the browser cache and history before and after you make online banking transactions.

    Safeguard your Personal Information

    • Never share any personal information such as: name, Social Security number, driver's license or identification card number, bank, credit cards, or debit cards account numbers; mother's maiden name, security codes, access codes, passwords, Personal Identification Numbers (PINs), or any other information that allows identification and access to your account(s).
    • Examine your financial statements and/or account activity on all of your accounts: First Entertainment's, credit cards, and investment statements on a monthly basis.
    • Dispose of any sensitive documents by first shredding them.

    Debit Card or Credit Card?

    Debit cards offer a viable solution for many of us who don't like to carry a lot of cash or don't want to be tempted to run up the balance on our credit cards. However, it isn't the right tool for every transaction.

    • Ditch your debit card when shopping online. When your card is lost or stolen, credit card users are protected by the Truth in Lending Act that protects you from liability for any debts if you report your card has been lost or stolen before unauthorized transactions are made. And if you notify your financial institution within two days of realizing that your card has been lost or stolen, according to the Electronic Fund Transfer Act, you could be liable for only $50.
    • Here are other places not to use your debit card:
    • Rental or security deposits: Because the business will take the money out of your checking account, the money is just "frozen" but not actually charged and you won't ever notice that it's gone.
    • Restaurants and bars: When the waiter takes your card from you and walks away, you have lost total control of your card's safety. It's better to use cash when dining out.
    • Businesses love to transition one payment on your debit card to a regular electronic fund transfer. It's better to use a credit card so that if there is a dispute, the business won't take the cash right out of your checking account, and you can bring the support of the credit card company to bear in disputing inaccurate charges.
  • Secure Your Home Wireless Network

    We've enjoyed more than a few espionage thrillers where villains and heroes alike have to crack the code to access key information. Unfortunately, reality isn't all that intriguing when cyber threats occur. And what's easier to target than a home network? Suddenly "Mission Impossible" is more like "Mission Possible".

    Fortunately, there are some simple steps you can take using off-the-shelf products to help you minimize the vulnerability of your home computing system:

    • Change the factory-default services set identifier (SSID) from the wireless manufacturers default value. Intruders can access your network by using the known and commonly used default settings, which are published on the Internet.
    • Do not share or communicate your SSID setting.
    • Enable encryption: Wireless Protected Access – Pre-Shared Key (WPA-PSK) is the suggested encryption method for the home network.
    • Ensure that your router's firewall is turned on. For extra protection, consider running personal firewall software on each computer connected to the router.
    • Use a software firewall on all devices connected to your network – computers and tablets. Prevent cyber attacks by enabling the personal firewall that came with your operating system; or, buy and install a separate personal firewall.
    • Do not automatically connect to open Wi-Fi networks; enable only in temporary situations.
    • Limit access to shared files and folders on your computers and tablets; set passwords on file shares and provide access only to authenticated users.
    • More seasoned computer users may want to consider using a bootable operating system when conducting online transactions. You could configure a bootable system on a USB Flash Drive with only the services and applications needed to perform financial transactions with First Entertainment Credit Union. When you need to access the online banking system to initiate electronic fund transfers, you would boot the "read-only" system on a USB Flash Drive attached to your computer. Any malware or spyware that may exist on your hard drive would not impact you in this scenario.
    • Do not leave your computer network on and open during extended periods. When traveling or during extended downtimes, consider turning off your home network to prevent outside hackers from breaking in.

    Install Security Updates to Your Operating System and All Applications

    • Keep your computer operating system up-to-date by allowing all updates on your security system to run.
    • Install the latest software patches for your web browser (Edge, Chrome, Firefox, Safari, etc.).

    Secure Your Home Computer's Software

    • Install updated anti-virus and anti-spyware software on your computer.
    • Allow for automatic scanning and updates of all anti-virus and anti-spyware.
    • Run anti-virus software on your computer after using a public Internet site or unsecured wireless connection.
  • Protect Yourself from Communicable e-Diseases

    To protect your computer system, software, files and other device, and to avoid the embarrassment of getting spammed, or even worse, here is a list of the most common diseases and how to protect yourself:

    Logging: Also referred to as keylogging, is the action of recording (or logging) the keys struck on a keyboard typically in a covert manner so that the person is unaware that their actions are being monitored. It is done through a variety of methods, including software, hardware, key overlays, optical surveillance and wireless methods. It is often downloaded inadvertently by users clicking on links in fraudulent emails. Luckily, software is on the market to protect you.

    Vishing, Phishing, and Smishing

    Vishing: The criminal practice of using Voice Over IP (VOIP) to gain access to private personal and financial information, typically occurring when you receive a phone call to your landline telephone alerting you that your credit card or bank account has had fraudulent activities. Voice vishing is very difficult for legal authorities to monitor or trace. To protect yourself, do not verify any personal or financial information and hang up. Then, call the company back who claims to have made the call through a phone number listed on a bill statement or other official source. The only phone number that First Entertainment Credit Union will ask you to call is 888.800.3328.

    Phishing: The online version of vishing works by sending you a fake message, usually an email, which appears to be from a legitimate financial institution or service provider. Like vishing, you will be directed to a toll-free number and asked to enter your credit card number or other personal information.

    Smishing: Same as Phishing, but appears as a SMS text message.

    Social Engineering: This is the politically correct term for 'a con game'. Social engineers are those people who appeal to an individual's weaknesses – fear, vanity, authority, greed, etc. – to get them to reveal their personal identification information. The term also applies to people who just look over your shoulder to look at your computer screen in a public space – also known as shoulder surfing…only in California, huh?

    SPAM: Unlike the tightly packed meat product sold in blue, pull-top cans, computer spam explodes unwanted texts and emails into your mobile devices. A legitimate operation, spam allows advertisers to keep their operating costs low. However, the hassle for consumers who have to deal with a deluge of unwanted messages is high. Your behaviors are your best defense:

    • Do not display your mobile phone number in public.
    • Be careful about giving out your mobile phone number, email address or other personal information on unknown websites (even if it looks legitimate).
    • Do not respond to unwanted texts or emails.
    • Check with your mobile service provider about blocking future messages from specific senders.
    • Use an email filter.
    • Use two email addresses: one for your personal messages and the other for newsgroups, chats, etc.
    • For more information, contact the Federal Trade Commission.

    Spyware: Aptly named, spyware is software that gathers information about an individual or organization without their knowledge, and then may send that information to another entity without consent. Sometimes, spyware is included with genuine software that is from a malicious website. Your best defense is a good offense: Install and regularly run anti-spyware software, and keep it up to date.

    Trojan Horse: It looks like legitimate software, but all things are not as they appear. Trojan horses are different than other computer viruses because the victim willingly downloads it into their computer believing that the software will provide some benefit. It's difficult to protect yourself from Trojan infections without software, but the good news is that there is free, downloadable software on the Internet that you can use.

  • Protect Yourself from Tax ID Theft

    Although the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has stepped up efforts to spot fraudulent tax returns filed by thieves, tax identity theft is still prevalent and the burden falls on you to protect yourself.

    Be on the lookout for any suspicious activity and know the warning signs to avoid becoming a victim:

    • Monitor the Mail.Have you received your W-2, 1099, and other tax forms? Follow up with the financial institution if you haven't received the forms and ask when they were mailed. If you suspect fraud, call the IRS Identity Protection Specialized Unit at 800.908.4490, ext. 245.
    • Ignore IRS Emails and Texts. The IRS does not use e-mails or texts to contact you, so don't respond. If you click on an attachment that claims to be from the IRS, it may contain a virus or take you to a fraudulent site. Forward suspicious e-mails to phishing@irs.gov.
    • Watch for Pop-ups. When filing taxes online, be suspicious of out-of-place pop-ups or a slow-running computer.
    • Secure Your Refund.Choose direct deposit to avoid lost or stolen checks.
    • Send Your Return Safely. File online if you can. If you file by mail, never put your return in an unsecured mailbox, office mailbox, or outgoing mail bin at work. The envelope says "tax return" and can easily be snatched. Take the return directly to the post office and use certified mail.
    • Choose Preparers Carefully. Scammers may pose as tax-preparation companies offering to review your return for errors, but instead they steal your information and your refund. Verify the status of the preparer's license with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and the IRS. Don't sign your return if the preparer didn't sign it, or if the return is incomplete.
  • Credit Card Fraud: Be Prepared

    How many credit cards do you carry? How many accounts do you have? A great many thousands of U.S. consumers have far more active credit card accounts (including retail, gas, loyalty cards, etc.) than they need to. And the more accounts you have, the greater the risk that one or more of those accounts can be compromised.

    If you carry a First Entertainment Visa® Debit Card or Visa Platinum Card and you feel it has been compromised, take these steps:

    1. Contact First Entertainment Credit Union at 888.800.3328 .
    2. Contact each of the three major credit bureaus and ask for their fraud department then request that a fraud alert be placed on your credit file.
    • Equifax: 800.525.6285
    • Experian: 888.397.3742
    • TransUnion: 800.680.7289

    Here are some things you can do to be better prepared and attempt to keep your credit card accounts safe:

    • Keep a record of your credit card account numbers, their expiration dates and the phone number to report fraud for each card in a secure place. You can keep them in a spreadsheet and password-protect the spreadsheet. Or keep the list in a safe deposit box.
    • Report lost or stolen credit cards immediately.
    • Shred anything with your credit card number on it.
    • Always cut up your old cards.
    • Don't leave your cards, receipts, or statements around your home or office. As mentioned above, most of us have lots of cards that we don't use regularly. Make sure that you know the location of ALL of your cards.
    • Carry your cards separately from your wallet. It can minimize your losses if someone steals your wallet or purse. And carry only the card you need for that outing.
    • Don't give your account number to anyone on the phone unless you've made the call to a company you know to be reputable. If you've never done business with them before, do an online search first for reviews or complaints.
    • Don't sign blank credit card receipts. Draw a line through any blank spaces above the total.
    • Save your receipts to compare with your statement.
    • Open your bills promptly – or check them online often – and reconcile them with the purchases you've made. Report any questionable charges to the card issuer. It takes just a few minutes to look over your credit card charges each month.
    • Password-protect your phone if you conduct credit card transactions through an App or Mobile Browser. Make sure your phone (and iPad and office computer) is password- or fingerprint-protected.
    • With the advent of RFID technology, many cards now have the ability to transmit data without the need to swipe the magnetic strip on the back of the card. You can deter thieves from exploiting this technology with the use of RFID blocking products.

    These are just a few things that you can do to lower your chances of becoming a victim of credit card fraud.

    Resolving and Repairing Identity Theft

    To resolve, repair and get your finances back on track takes a considerable amount of painstaking follow up. The Federal Trade Commission helps you get started with an Identity Theft Repair Web Site.

  • Social Media and Email Security

    First Entertainment Credit Union has established a presence in most of the online social channels as a way of interacting with our members. But we always ask that you be careful when interacting with us, and that you should report suspicious activity if you think that someone is claiming to be a First Entertainment representative in social media.

    Here are First Entertainment Credit Union's online activities:

    • In 2008 we began to incorporate social networking sites into our Marketing efforts through Facebook – be sure to check us out at facebook.com/FirstEntertainment.
    • Then, we began monitoring Internet activity and all postings that mentioned the Credit Union.
    • In 2009 we started on Twitter, to share information of interest with our members – including both operational information, as well as promotional information about our products, and related personal financial information topics. You can follow us on Twitter "@Firstent."
    • In 2010 we went established a business account on Yelp. Just yelp loudly and you'll find us.
    • In 2012 we launched our YouTube channel to post video communications that would be of interest to our members and potential new members.
    • In 2013 we signed on to Google+, and in 2015 we established a more regular presence on Instagram.
    • We also communicate regularly by email with our members. Any member can opt-out of our regular email communication program by clicking on the "Instant removal with SafeUnsubscribeTM" link found at the very bottom of any First Entertainment email communication. This link will take the member to a page on the Constant Contact web site asking for the member's email. Once input, the SafeUnsubscribe service will add the member's address to a DO NOT MAIL list and will prevent it from being mailed to in future communications. The member can subscribe again if they wish to be put back on the list.
  • Prevent Check Fraud

    Sometimes life is just like the movies: and committing check fraud by digging through your garbage searching for canceled or old checks, practicing forgery or using desktop publishing to create or duplicate financial documents does occur. However, the good news is that it is pretty easy to protect yourself from some of the common ways that criminals get access to your information and make you prey to check fraud. Here are a few easy tips:

    • Store all of your checking account paperwork: checks, deposit slips, bank statements, and cancelled checks in a locked area: a filing cabinet, lock box, etc.
    • Safeguard your credit card receipts and credit card convenience checks; the receipt may prove important in the event that when your statement arrives and the amount you were charged is different than the amount on your receipt.
    • Always reconcile your bank statement within 30 days of receipt, making sure that the amount on the bank statement is the amount you can prove that you paid on your receipts.
    • Safeguard your checking account information, ATM card, and PIN as much as you do any other personal identification information. Don't share that information even with a family member by asking them to take your ATM card to pick up some cash for you.
    • If your home is burglarized, be sure to look through your check supplies closely. Often times criminals take one or two checks from the middle or back of the book, so it will take you longer to realize that some of your checks have been taken.
    • Avoid using your checks or deposit slips as scratch paper.
    • Don't write your check out to cash; if your wallet or purse is stolen, anyone can take that check to a bank to get your cash.
    • Don't leave blank spaces on the payee and amount lines.
    • Don't write your credit card number on the check.
    • Don't ever endorse a check until you are at the counter ready to get cash or make the deposit – the information can be altered if it is lost or stolen.
    • Shred all bank-related documents before throwing away; even if the account is closed.

Report Unusual Debit or Visa® Credit Card Activity

Contact us at 888.800.3328 if your First Entertainment debit or Visa® credit card has been compromised, lost, stolen, or blocked.

(Out of the U.S., call 323.851.3673)