Log in todayto review your security settings, enable account alerts, and turn on multi-factor authentication so you can enjoy the holidays with peace of mind. 
 
October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, a timely reminder to tighten your account security before holiday shopping ramps up. Between gift-buying, travel, and busy schedules, fraudsters have more chances than ever to catch consumers off guard. Here's how to protect your account before the season begins. 

1.) Turn on Account Alerts 

Set up account alerts to receive notifications when purchases are made, large transactions occur, or account information changes. Real-time alerts can help you identify suspicious activity quickly, rather than discovering it days or weeks later. Ascend members can also use card controls in the Ascend app to lock or unlock cards, set spending limits, and monitor activity right from their phone. 

2.) Strengthen Your Passwords and Enable MFA 

Do each of your accounts have their own unique password? Weak or reused passwords are one of the easiest ways cybercriminals gain access to accounts. Strengthen yours with a mix of letters, numbers, symbols, and varied capitalization, and steer clear of personal information like birth dates or street names.  

Consider using a password manager -- a secure tool that stores and generates strong, unique passwords for your accounts -- and enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) wherever it's offered. MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second step, such as a one-time code sent to your phone, before you can log in. Ascend will never ask for your digital banking login or one-time passcode, so never share either. 

3.) Watch for Holiday Scams and Spoofing Attempts 

Scammers use spoofing to make calls, emails, or texts look like they're coming from Ascend or another trusted business. If a message seems suspicious, don't reply or click. Contact us directly at 800-342-3086 to verify first. 

When shopping, stick to reputable websites and avoid clicking on pop-up ads or links from unverified senders. Check for a secure URL (the lock icon and "https") before entering payment details and keep your devices' security settings up to date. Also, stay vigilant of fake charities. Verify any organization through its official website rather than a link in an email or text and be wary of appeals demanding gift cards or wire transfers. 

We're Here to Help 

If you're unsure how to set up account alerts, card controls, or multi-factor authentication, we're here to help. Contact us at 800-342-3086, visit a branch, or send us a secure message through digital banking, and we'll walk you through the setup process. 

Guarding Your Information Year-Round 

Beyond alerts and strong passwords, Ascend members have tools like travel notices and card controls to help protect their accounts year-round. For a quick refresher on spotting scams, check out our free fraud prevention module. 

Protect Your Account Before the Holiday Season 

A few simple security measures go a long way. Log in todayto review your security settings, enable account alerts, and turn on MFA so you can enjoy the holidays with peace of mind. If you’re an Ascend member and you suspect you are a victim of fraud, please call us immediately at 800-342-3086. 

Find more tips at ascend.org/fraud. 

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