Your security matters every day, but October, recognized nationally as Cybersecurity Awareness Month, is the perfect time to pause and focus on protecting yourself online. Scams and fraud attempts are becoming more sophisticated. Many look like everyday emails, texts, or websites from trusted sources. A single click on a fake link can put your personal and financial information at risk.

At Florida Credit Union (FCU), your protection is always a priority. We offer digital tools, account alerts, and fraud monitoring to help you stay safe. When paired with smart cybersecurity habits, you can reduce your risk of falling victim to scams and build confidence in your online activity.

The Growing Threat of Impersonation Scams

One of the most common tactics scammers use today is impersonation. They build websites, emails, or text messages that look like they are from a legitimate business. The goal is to get you to enter your login credentials, contact information, or even payment details before redirecting you to the real site.

The Associated Press recently reported that phishing, robocalls, and social media marketplace scams are among the fastest-growing forms of fraud in 2025. Fraudsters are skilled at copying logos, using realistic language, and creating urgency to get you to act quickly. That is why it is more important than ever to slow down and double-check before sharing any personal information online.

How to Tell If a Website or Message Is Real

Spotting a fake site or message is not always easy, but small details can make a big difference. Here are a few checks that can help:

• Look at the URL: FCU's official website is always flcu.org. Make sure the address starts with "https://" and shows a lock icon in the browser bar. Even one letter out of place can indicate a scam.
• Go direct: If you receive an email or text with a link, do not click on it. Instead, type "flcu.org" into your browser or use the official FCU Anywhere app.
• Watch for mistakes: Spelling errors, outdated logos, or awkward formatting are often signs of fraud.
• Be cautious with urgency: Many scam messages claim that your account will be locked or suspended unless you act immediately. This pressure is designed to override your judgment.

Smart Cybersecurity Habits for Every Day

While fraudsters work hard to stay convincing, the good news is that you have the power to protect yourself. Practicing everyday cybersecurity habits will make you a tougher target:

• Use strong, unique passwords: Mix uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters. Avoid using the same password across multiple accounts.
• Turn on multi-factor authentication (MFA): MFA requires an additional step, like a code sent to your phone, which makes it much harder for scammers to break into your accounts.
• Keep your devices updated: Install the latest updates on your phone, tablet, and computer to close security gaps.
• Only scan trusted QR codes: Stick to QR codes from sources you know, such as FCU's official materials, and avoid scanning random ones in public spaces.
• Review your privacy settings: Limit what strangers can see on your social media profiles. Sharing too much personal information makes it easier for scammers to target you.
• Trust your instincts: If something feels off, it probably is.

Common Scams to Watch Out For

Fraud attempts are constantly evolving. Staying aware of the most common scams can help you spot red flags before it is too late.

Phishing Emails and Texts

These often appear to be from companies you know, asking you to verify account details or click on a link. According to the Federal Trade Commission, phishing attempts are among the most widespread scams in 2025. They are designed to look urgent, but their real goal is to steal login credentials or financial information.

Social Media Marketplace Scams

Online shopping scams are another area of growth. Fraudsters may post fake listings on sites like Facebook Marketplace, advertising deals that seem too good to be true. Once you send payment, the seller disappears and the item never arrives.

Government Imposters

The Social Security Administration warns that fraudsters often call, email, or text while pretending to be from government agencies such as the SSA or IRS. They may claim that you owe money, that your benefits will be suspended, or that your information is at risk unless you pay or share personal details.

Robocalls

Automated calls claiming suspicious account activity are another common tactic. These calls often encourage you to press a number to connect with a "representative." In reality, this can connect you directly to a scammer.

How FCU Helps Protect You

At Florida Credit Union, we put strong security measures in place to protect your accounts every time you log in or make a transaction:

• Secure Login Measures: Multi-factor authentication and other safeguards help ensure that only authorized members can access their accounts.
• Card Controls: Instantly turn your debit or credit card on or off, right from the FCU Anywhere app.
• Account Alerts: Set up real-time text or email notifications for purchases, logins, or balance changes.
• Fraud Protection: Our robust monitoring tools stop suspicious activity before it impacts your account.

These protections are designed to give you more control, more visibility, and greater peace of mind.

What To Do If You Suspect Fraud

If you believe you may have encountered a scam, act quickly.

1. Stop and close the suspicious website, email, or text.
2. Do not re-enter your information.
3. Contact FCU directly through flcu.org, the FCU Anywhere app, or by calling your local branch.
4. Report the scam to the FTC or the SSA so others can be alerted.
5. Monitor your accounts closely for unusual activity.

Remember, if you are ever in doubt, reach out to FCU. We would much rather you ask questions than risk your security.

Staying Secure Together

Cybersecurity is not just about protecting your account. It is about protecting your identity, your finances, and your peace of mind. While fraudsters continue to find new ways to trick people, staying informed and practicing safe habits will put you ahead of the game.

At FCU, we are proud to stand with our members in building a stronger, safer financial community. By using the tools available to you, being cautious with suspicious messages, and reporting scams, you are not just protecting yourself, you are helping protect the entire FCU family.

Want to take the next step? Log into FCU Anywhere today to set up account alerts, or visit our eFraud Prevention page for more tips.