Keep Your Credentials Safe

Sandia Area offers multiple ways for you to access your money safely for your convenience, but those same tools can be used against you. The security features of your Online Banking account – your username, password, multi-factor authentication and contact information- are critical to keeping your money safe. If someone gains access to your credentials, they can transfer funds, change security settings, and even lock you out of your own account. Once that happens, recovering funds is difficult, if not impossible. That’s why it’s critical to protect your login information and stay alert for fraud.

How Scammers Get In
Fraudsters use various tactics to trick you into giving up your credentials. Some common scams include:

• Phishing emails and calls – They impersonate your credit union, a well-known company, or even a friend, asking for your login details or personal information.
• Hacked email accounts – If your email is compromised, scammers can reset your passwords and gain access to your financial accounts.
• Fake urgency – Scammers create a sense of panic, claiming your account is in danger, you’re in legal trouble, or you need to act immediately to claim a prize.
• Secrecy – If someone tells you to keep a transaction or request confidential, that’s a red flag.

Even Trusted Individuals Can Put Your Credentials at Risk
Not all risks come from scammers. If your passwords are not stored securely, even someone you trust—like a friend or family member—could use or expose your information, whether purposely or inadvertently. Writing down passwords, saving them in unprotected documents, or sharing them via email or text messages makes it easier for unauthorized users to gain access. Instead, use a secure password manager and enable multi-factor authentication to add an extra layer of protection. Never share your credentials with anyone who doesn’t already have access to your account.

Protect Yourself: Steps to Stay Secure

1. Never share your login credentials. If someone isn’t an authorized user on your account, they have no reason to ask for access. 
2. Verify requests before acting. Whether it’s a call, email, or text asking you to move money or share information, double-check with Sandia Area directly at (505) 292-6343. Don’t be persuaded by threats or urgent demands.
3. Monitor your accounts regularly. Frequently check your transactions and contact details to ensure nothing has been changed without your knowledge.
4. Set up alerts. Enable transaction notifications, spending alerts, and login alerts within Online Banking to keep track of account activity in real time.
5. Watch for suspicious emails. If you receive an unexpected email about changes to your account or contact information, contact us immediately.

Stay One Step Ahead
If you receive a message or call about your account that seems off, do not engage. Instead, contact Sandia Area directly using the official number from our website. You can also add an extra layer of security by setting up a codeword for your account—this ensures that only you can authorize changes. Call us or visit your nearest branch to add a codeword.

Stay informed by bookmarking our Fraud Center or saving it as a resource. It’s your go-to place for updates on the latest scams, fraud prevention tips, and Sandia Area events focused on financial security. Your security is our priority, but the first line of defense is you. Be cautious, stay informed, and protect your hard-earned money.