Practice Good Password Hygiene

• Use a password manager to help you generate and securely store passwords
• Create long, unique passwords – randomly generated is best
• Avoid simple phrases and patterns like Summer2025! or p@$$w0rd123
• Don’t use the same password for multiple sites
• Change your password immediately if you suspect it has been compromised (learn how)
• Never share your passwords, verification codes, or card PINs with anyone

Enable 2-Step Verification Anywhere You Can

Practice Good Device Hygiene

• Password-protect your devices
• Use reputable and supported apps from official app stores
• Keep your devices and apps up to date – enable automatic updates where possible
• Use antivirus software if your device doesn’t have built-in protection

Use a Personal Device When Accessing Your Accounts

If you must use a shared or public device, the following precautions can lower your risk:

• Use the computer’s on-screen keyboard to enter your login credentials (to protect against keyloggers)
• Do not save credentials in the browser when prompted – for example, options like “Save Username and Password” or “Remember Me”
• When you’re done:
• Log out of all accounts
• Clear browser cookies and cache
• Close all browser windows

Monitor Your Account Activity

Regularly review account statements, transaction history, and credit reports for unusual or unexpected activity. Understanding your credit report is an essential part of protecting your financial identity—visit usa.gov/credit-reports to learn how to access and interpret your reports. For enhanced protection against identity theft, consider freezing your credit reports—learn more at usa.gov/credit-freeze.

If you notice unusual account activity, or if your card is lost or stolen, report it immediately by calling us 1.800.835.7794 or contacting us.

If you believe you are the victim of identity theft, visit identitytheft.gov to file a report and get a recovery plan.

Recognize and Prevent Scams

• Be cautious of unexpected or unusual communications:
• Never give out personal information unless you started the conversation (e.g. passwords, verification codes, credit/debit card or account numbers, birthdates, social security numbers)
• Don’t click links, open attachments, or call numbers – when in doubt, go directly to the official app/website/phone number to confirm it’s legitimate
• When signing in to online banking, verify the URL is correct (dowcreditunion.org) to avoid fake login pages
• Dow Credit Union will never:
• Make unsolicited requests for account details or sensitive information
• Request payment or account access to resolve fraud or security issues
• Demand immediate action or threaten consequences to pressure you

For more information on recognizing common scams:

• Federal Trade Commission: How to Recognize and Avoid Phishing Scams
• Federal Trade Commission: Phone Scams

If you think you’ve fallen victim to a scam involving Dow Credit Union, contact us as soon as possible by sending a message in online or mobile banking, or by calling 1-800-835-7794.

Protect Your Personal Information

• Avoid sending sensitive information through text messages or regular email – stick to secure messaging, file transfer, or email solutions provided by Dow Credit Union
• Only carry essential identification and payment cards to reduce the risk of loss or identity theft
• Store identification, financial statements, and other sensitive documents in a secure location at home to prevent unauthorized access or theft
• Shred or securely dispose of documents containing personal or financial information when no longer needed—take advantage of Dow Credit Union’s Shred Days for safe disposal