Our Security Spotlight features information about current scams, provides tips to protect yourself from fraud attacks, and offers steps you should take should you fall victim to fraud.

• Virtual Kidnapping Scam - a very scary scam is going around. Victims of this scam receive a threatening phone call where the person claims to have kidnapped and/or is holding one of your family members and demands payment. When this happens, chances are, this is not a real hostage situation. This article gives great information on how to look for signs that this is a scam, and what you should do if you get one of these phone calls.
  

• New Job Scam - with a continued surge in businesses looking to hire, some fraudsters are creating fake jobs that look to steal personal information. By posting phony "Help Wanted" positions, the fraudsters will steal personal information submitted via resumes and applications. If you are in the market for a new job, make sure to do your due diligence and research any company you are submitting applications to. Learn more by clicking here.
  

• Card Swipe Skimmers - a clever way scammers try to get card information can be right in front of our eyes but can be difficult to see. By placing an electronic device masked as an actual card reader, victims swipe a credit card and/or debit card and scammers are then able to steal unsuspecting victims' card numbers.
  
  Card skimmers are placed directly over the credit card reader. The best defense against these scams is to inspect the device before swiping your card. Be on high alert when using outdoor ATM's and pay at the pump readers at gas stations. For more information on how to spot and avoid credit card skimmers, read this article.
  

1. Track your information regularly - Track your account information weekly and/or daily to monitor against fraud on your account. Astera offers text alerts that can notify you the moment your card or account has a charge pending. This can help you hopefully shut down the fraud before it completes.
   
   
2. Keep your information up-to-date - Regularly check that your personal information is up-to-date. Ensuring that your account information is accurate can help prevent fraud from happening. It's important to make sure that any information is being sent to you and not someone else. You can review your personal information by logging into your Astera CU online banking account. Remember an Astera CU representative will never ask for this information over the phone.
   
   
3. There is help in apps and services - Fraud is on everyone's mind, and protecting yourself against it is even easier by downloading certain apps and taking advantage of tools they provide. Astera CU offers many products and services dedicated to protecting your accounts. Check out our Astera Card Controls app by clicking here.
   
   
4. Call immediately if you suspect you're a victim of fraud - Should you fall victim to a scam or fraud, one of the first steps to take is contacting the proper authorities along with your financial institution(s) to make them aware. Astera CU will secure your account, including shutting down your account(s) to prevent future loss.

Astera Eservices are a safe and convenient tool for everyone's financial life. Access your accounts 24/7 without stepping foot outside your home.

Some of the essential Eservices we offer are:

• Online Banking - easily manage accounts from the comfort of your home computer, free of charge. Log on to easily check account balances, transfer funds, make loan payments, and more!
• Mobile Banking - same great service that online banking provides, but on the go! Use your tablet or smartphone for instant access to your accounts.
• Bill Pay - avoid making late payments and pay bills from your computer or mobile device. With One-Click Bill Pay, pay your bills faster and easier than ever!
• Remote Deposit Capture - avoid unnecessary trips to the credit union by depositing checks from your phone. It's as easy as taking a picture. Click here to learn more.
• CardNav - take control of your cards with real-time actions and alerts for your Astera debit card. Set budgeting limits that stay within your goals, or set spending restrictions based on range or vendors.

We also offer many other convenient Eservices such as:

• Audio Banking
• Direct Deposit
  
• MoneyDesktop (financial management service)
• Text Message Alerts

Download the Astera Card Controls app and gain a new level of security and control over your money today!

If you'd like more information about Astera's security services, call us at 800.323.0048, or visit us at www.AsteraCU.com.