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7 Simple Steps to Secure Your Online Banking

Published: June 18, 2025

7 Simple Steps to Secure Your Online Banking

Online banking makes managing your finances more convenient than ever—especially with secure tools like myUSSFCU Online and Mobile Banking. But with that convenience comes the need to be vigilant. Cybercriminals are constantly finding new ways to target unsuspecting users, so it’s essential to take steps to keep your accounts safe. Failure to do so could result in financial loss, identity theft, or other serious consequences.

Here are 7 simple but effective ways to protect your online banking experience:

1. Use Strong, Unique Passwords A strong password is your first line of defense. Avoid using names, birthdays, or simple sequences like “123456.” Instead, use a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Better yet, use a passphrase—something like “Coffee$FirstThenBanking2025!”

Tip: Never reuse passwords across multiple sites, especially for online banking.

2. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) Most banks, including USSFCU, offer two-factor authentication for added security. With 2FA, you’ll need both your password and a second verification method (like a code sent to your phone) to log in.

Why it matters: Even if someone gets your password, they can’t access your account without the second factor.

3. Keep Your Devices Updated Install software updates for your phone, tablet, and computer as soon as they’re available. Updates often include security patches that protect against newly discovered threats.

Don’t forget: Keep your myUSSFCU app up to date, too—new versions often include the latest security improvements.

4. Avoid Public Wi-Fi for Banking Using public Wi-Fi at coffee shops, airports, or hotels can expose your personal information. If you must access your account on the go, use your mobile data or a secure VPN connection when logging into myUSSFCU.

5. Monitor Your Accounts Regularly Check your bank and credit card statements often. If you spot any unauthorized transactions, report them immediately. With myUSSFCU Online and Mobile Banking, you can easily view account activity, set up alerts, and track your finances in real-time for added peace of mind.

6. Don’t Click Suspicious Links Phishing emails and fake banking websites are common scams. Be cautious with links sent via email or text, even if they look official. Always navigate directly to my.ussfcu.org or open the myUSSFCU app rather than clicking unknown links.

7. Log Out When You’re Done It may seem small, but logging out of your myUSSFCU Online Banking session—especially on shared or public devices—adds another layer of protection.

 


Your Security Matters By following these steps and using the secure tools available through myUSSFCU Online and Mobile Banking, you can take control of your online banking safety and reduce your risk of fraud. Staying informed and alert is the best way to protect what matters most—your money and peace of mind. Have questions about secure online banking? Our team is here to help. Reach out or stop by for personalized support—or explore the security features inside myUSSFCU Online and Mobile Banking today.

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Members' Voice Testimonials

This credit union is the best, I love the customer service and you can't beat the interest rates. I'm happy to be a member of this great credit union.

The branch manager introduced herself and was extremely helpful. She stated that if there is anything we ever need to please let her know. Very positive experience!

Greta was absolutely amazing - as always. She makes me and my parents feel valued and supported. We are forever grateful. [The Credit Union] has been hugely supportive over many years. And we feel known and cared for.

Long as I have been with the credit union, I haven't had any problems. I also like the protection on my account.

My overall experience at the credit union was exceptional. The staff was hospitable offering water, my service was timely and professional and the office was well lit and clean.

As a member for more than 40 years, i have always had great service from the USSFCU and know that they stand behind their great reputation.

A top rate Credit Union, [I'm] privileged to be part of! Thank you for all you do for our family! USSFCU Credit Union was able to resolve our financial situation - vehicle, personal loans, customer service/recommendations, within 6 months. We belonged to another credit union for over 20 years, with results not even close to comparison. We switched ...

Your people and products are amazing. The recent [online banking] overhaul is phenomenal. [I've] been electronic banking since Tele action phone banking - paying bills with my push button landline decades ago. USSFCU is light years ahead of everyone else in terms of ease of use and client experience!

I have been a member for more than 30 years. I no longer reside in the DC area but continue to bank with USSFCU because of the ease and the customer service.

I have been a member for over 50 years, and I have always gotten good service with loans, when I had to have service at a branch, and when I needed to have money sent to me from my savings account. The personnel have always been friendly and treated me with respect.

I especially appreciate being able to quickly speak with someone (not a robot) and that person has always been knowledgeable and helpful.

Excellent customer service streamlined and transparent process. The representatives are efficient, knowledgeable, and understanding of the type of loans offered by Credit Union.

The USSFCU behaves as a credit union ought to behave. The staff works with and for the members, not for a corporate board. Interest rates for a car loan, a home improvement loan, and a mortgage are low and terms are transparent.

Staff are courteous and friendly to work with. Very knowledgeable about services and products offered or available. Excellent follow-up with customers.

I have appreciated USSFCU services for many years since I left my work on Capitol Hill. I have appreciated the occasional webinars on purchasing a home or retirement planning.

I have been a member since 2006, and have always appreciated the customer service response to any concern or query. In addition, as I have traveled extensively, USSFCU has provided support and access.

I've had a credit union account for decades, even though I no longer work on Capitol Hill. I now have two accounts. I've been able to do all of our banking remotely, by app or by phone.

I have been a USSFCU member for almost 20 years. There is nowhere else I want my money to be. I always receive excellent service.

I deeply appreciate the stellar service, the proficiency, the professionalism, and the kindness. I am truly honored and grateful to bank with a financial institution that treats customers like family.

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