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Security Awareness

Security Awareness at Gulf Coast Federal Credit Union

Protecting your personal and financial information is one of our top priorities. Here’s how we help keep your digital banking experience safe and secure:

 

🔐 Online Banking Security

When you enroll in Gulf Coast FCU’s Online Banking, you’ll set up a secure login with a personal username, password, and security questions. To enhance protection, a unique verification code will be sent via email, text, or phone call each time you log in. You can register your personal device to bypass this step in future logins—but never register public or shared computers.

 

📱 Mobile App Security

Our mobile banking app offers the same high-level security as online banking. You’ll go through the same verification process and be automatically logged out after a period of inactivity. For added protection, we encourage you to lock your device with a passcode in case it’s lost or stolen.

 

🌐 Online Safety & EFT Awareness

Most of your digital transactions are considered Electronic Fund Transfers (EFTs). These include actions you take via phone, computer, or ATM that move money to or from your account. Review our account disclosures for details on your rights and responsibilities under Regulation E.

If you have any questions about online security, please contact us at 361-980-8203. Your safety matters to us!

 

💻 Home Computer Security

  • Change passwords regularly – Aim to update them every 20–30 days.
  • Install and update firewalls, antivirus, and anti-spyware programs frequently.
  • Use a personal firewall to protect your computer from unauthorized access.
  • Avoid clicking suspicious links in emails or pop-ups.
  • Download software only from trusted sources you can verify.

🏧 ATM & Night Deposit Safety Tips

  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially after dark.
  • Bring someone with you if you’re using an ATM at night.
  • Close the door behind you if the ATM has a secured entrance.
  • Politely ask others to keep a respectful distance during your transaction.
  • Never allow strangers inside the ATM facility after hours.
  • Keep your cash out of sight—secure it quickly and count it later at home or in your vehicle.
  • If something feels off or suspicious, cancel your transaction and leave immediately.
  • If followed, go to a public place or area with other people.
  • Never write your PIN on your card or keep it with your card.

🚨 If Your Card is Lost or Stolen

Report it right away:

  • During business hours: (361) 980-8203
  • Fraud Hotline for members:  1-855-961-1602
  • After hours:
    • Debit Card: 855-584-7545
    • Credit Card: 855-584-7545

📞 When We May Contact You

We may reach out to you if we detect suspicious or unusual activity. Contact methods include:

  • Phone
  • Mail
  • Email
  • In person

Reasons for contact include:

  • Unusual debit card or loan activity
  • Potential account errors

⚠️ Be aware: Scammers often mimic legitimate calls or emails. If you’re unsure, contact us directly.

 

🧾 For Business Members

We encourage all business accounts to perform regular risk assessments. If anything seems off, contact our team to validate account activity or ask questions.

 

🚨 Scams & Fraud to Watch Out For

Phishing

Scammers pose as a trusted organization (like a bank or credit union) to steal your information via fake emails or pop-ups.

  • Don’t click on unsolicited links.
  • Don’t open unknown attachments.
  • Keep your antivirus software up to date.

If you suspect phishing, call us immediately.

Smishing (Text Message Scams)

Smishing uses text messages to trick you into clicking links or calling fake numbers.

  • Gulf Coast FCU will never ask for sensitive info via text.
  • Watch for strange sender numbers like “5000.”
  • Never respond to suspicious texts—verify first by contacting us directly.

🧾 Identity Theft

Identity theft occurs when someone steals your personal info to access credit or open accounts in your name.

  • Watch for unknown charges or surprise bills.
  • Keep all financial and personal information secure.
  • Use ID protection services—Gulf Coast FCU offers affordable monitoring and support.
  • Consider a credit freeze if you suspect identity theft. Contact Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion directly.

🚨 Report Suspicious Activity

If you notice any unusual activity or suspect a security issue, call us at 361-980-8203 immediately.

To report suspicious businesses or scams, contact the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Your report helps protect others and support law enforcement.

✅ Together, we can protect our community and fight fraud.

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