Online banking, shopping, and digital communication are a part of everyday life. While they offer convenience, they also create new opportunities for fraud and identity theft. At Advia Credit Union, protecting our members and their money is a top priority, and we believe that awareness is one of the most effective tools in preventing fraud. Putting these simple cybersecurity tips into practice will help to protect your identity online and protect you against the latest scams.
First and foremost, it’s important to know this: Advia will never contact you to ask for your debit or credit card number, the three digit security code on the back of your card, your full account number, your Digital Banking login ID, or your Secure Access Code. If you receive a call, text or message requesting this information, do not respond. Instead, contact Advia directly using the phone number listed on our website or your statement.
A good rule of thumb is to never share access to your Digital Banking with anyone who is not an authorized signer on your account.
Quick reminders to help you avoid common scams
- Be cautious of people you meet online who ask you to move money, deposit checks, or make purchases on their behalf.
- Legitimate businesses do not accept payment only in gift cards.
- If you are unsure whether a call or message is real, hang up and contact the company using a verified phone number. Caller ID and phone numbers can be easily spoofed.
How cyber criminals target consumers today
Fraud tactics have become more sophisticated in recent years. Some of the most common methods include:
Phishing and malicious links
Scammers send emails or texts that appear legitimate and encourage you to click a link or open an attachment. Once clicked, malware can be installed, or login credentials can be captured, giving criminals access to personal and financial information.
Fake or cloned websites
Fraudsters create websites that closely resemble trusted retailers or financial institutions. When users enter card or account details to make a purchase, that information is stolen and used for unauthorized transactions.
Unsecured public Wi‑Fi networks
Free Wi‑Fi at cafés, airports or hotels is often unsecured. Criminals can intercept data sent over these networks, potentially gaining access to card numbers, account details or personal information.
Expert tips to help you stay safe online
One of Advia’s IT professionals has shared the following best practices to help members reduce their risk of fraud:
Stay alert and monitor your accounts
Anyone can be targeted; fraud doesn’t discriminate. Regularly review your transactions through Digital Banking or monthly statements and report anything unfamiliar right away. Setting up account and card alerts can help you spot suspicious activity quickly.
Members with Advia Visa® Debit and Credit Cards can enroll in real‑time Visa® Alerts, which notify you of transactions by text, email, or both, including card‑not‑present purchases or transactions over a chosen amount.
Practice strong password habits
Strong passwords remain one of the simplest and most effective security tools.
Do:
- Use a mix of letters, numbers and symbols
- Create a passphrase rather than a single word
- Use a reputable password manager
Don’t:
- Reuse the same password across multiple sites
- Share passwords with others
- Write passwords down
For added security, you can also set up a verbal password for phone or in‑person transactions with Advia.
Secure your devices
Never leave your computer, phone or tablet unattended without locking it, even briefly. Use built‑in security features such as PINs, fingerprints or facial recognition to protect your devices.
Think before clicking
Unexpected emails or messages should always raise caution. Warning signs include poor grammar, generic greetings, urgent language, or requests that don’t make sense. Before clicking, hover over links to verify the web address and look closely for small differences in spelling or domain names.
Use trusted networks for sensitive activity
Online banking and shopping should only be done on your own device using a secure, private internet connection. Avoid entering personal or financial information on public computers or public Wi-Fi networks.
Keep software and antivirus protection up to date
Install antivirus software on all devices you use for banking or shopping and keep it updated. Software updates often include important security patches designed to protect against new threats. Many antivirus providers offer coverage across multiple devices, making it easier to stay protected wherever you go.
How Advia helps protect our members
Keeping your information safe is a shared effort. Behind the scenes, Advia’s IT and Risk Management teams work continuously to safeguard member data and monitor accounts for suspicious activity. These teams stay current on emerging fraud trends and use advanced tools to help identify and prevent unauthorized transactions.
Advia continues to invest in technology that makes protecting your information easier. With Protect Plus, members benefit from enhanced multi-factor authentication that strengthens security while keeping everyday banking simple, including features like optional fingerprint or facial recognition, fewer login steps, and authentication triggered only for higher-risk activity. Advia will also be introducing voice biometrics through Ava, allowing members to verify their identity using their voice when calling for a faster, more seamless experience that reduces time spent answering security questions while adding an extra layer of protection, with secure alternatives always available.
Many Advia products also include built-in security features. Visa® Platinum Credit Cards, for example, come with fraud monitoring and online purchase protection through Verified by Visa®. Combined with Digital Banking alerts and account monitoring, these tools help provide peace of mind and early detection if something doesn’t look right.
Stay informed and take action early
Fraud prevention starts with awareness. By recognizing warning signs and using available security tools, you can significantly reduce your risk of becoming a victim. If you ever suspect fraud or identity theft, contact Advia immediately so we can help protect your account.
For more information and additional fraud prevention resources, visit Advia’s Information Center and explore ways to stay informed and secure.
About Advia Credit Union: Our mission is to provide financial advantages to its members. With nearly $4 billion in assets, Advia seeks to provide quick and easy access to money and time-saving financial tools to nearly 200,000 members in Michigan, Wisconsin, and Illinois. Advia's team of over 600 professionals delivers excellent service and innovative products at 34 locations and via digital and mobile platforms. Advia is guided by its core values: driving progress, acting with integrity, building and strengthening relationships, and keeping people at the core. Visit adviacu.org to learn more about how Advia provides Real Advantages for Real People.™