Protect your information online

How you can protect yourself

Fraud and identity theft are consistently becoming more advanced and these types of criminals target no one specifically – anyone can become a victim. It's important to be aware of the warning signs to ensure you stay protected, both online and offline.

We take many precautions to protect our domain, website and emails and the same goes with your accounts and personal information. If you suspect any loss, theft or unauthorized use of your accounts, contact us immediately and report the fraud.

Best practices when you're online

At FirstOntario Credit Union, your information security is our top priority. There are some ways you can help ensure even greater security when accessing online account services:

Make sure your computer, tablet and smartphone are running up-to-date antivirus software.
Avoid accessing your accounts online when using public WIFI services.
Use updated browsers and operating systems.

Be cautious with your information online

Do not send personal information by email or instant messages. Once sent or shared, the information is no longer under your control and could be intercepted and stolen.
Strictly limit any personal information you post on the web and restrict who can access it. Consider deleting old posts that include personal information.
Unless you personally know and trust the sender, do not open files, download programs or click links in emails or instant messaging. Phishing scams often use these “click bait” techniques to steal and abuse identities and may even gain remote control of your computer.

Be smart about your passwords and your Personal Access Code (PAC)

Use strong passphrases that are difficult to guess and include combinations of upper and lower case letters, numbers and symbols.
Ensure your passwords are always unique and never reused on different sites or accounts. You may need to select a trustworthy password database to keep them secure.
Keep your PAC confidential and do not share it with anyone.
Never disclose your PAC in a voicemail or email, and do not disclose it over the phone.
Ensure no one observes you typing in your PAC.
When available, enable multi-factor authentication or two-step verification (2SV).

Be aware of phishing attempts

Phishing scams are common forms of identity theft. Criminals try to access to your personal information by disguising themselves as a company or person you trust – like a financial institution. They copy logos, designs and details from actual emails, texts and websites.

Learn more about Phishing

Check your account and credit card statements regularly

Protect yourself by regularly checking your credit score to make sure there are no unusual transactions or credit activity reported in your name (Equifax or TransUnion).

Protect your PIN

Your debit card and PIN are the keys to your account(s). They are both required to complete a transaction so you should keep them in a safe place and never lend them to anyone. Even if criminals get access to your card, they need the PIN to get access to your money – so remember to protect your PIN.

*Please note: All fraud related reports connected to a financial loss will be thoroughly investigated by FirstOntario Credit Union. Any confirmed failure to protect your password or PAC/PIN information will result in non-reimbursement of funds.

Get notified of activity on your account

We strongly recommend enabling alerts on your online accounts as an effective safeguard to improve your security and provide added peace of mind.

You have the option to receive notifications by email and/or text message for the following:

When a new payee is added
When your Personal Access Code (PAC) has been changed
When you've been locked out of online account services

Simply go into your online account services to set up these helpful alerts.

Report fraud

Contact FirstOntario Credit Union immediately if you suspect someone has gained knowledge of your password (PAC)/PIN, or if you suspect any loss, theft or unauthorized use of your account.

Learn how to report fraud