How Ascend Protects You as a Member

Fraud Prevention | 03/04/26
A hand holds a brochure titled “Protecting Members from Fraud,” featuring a smartphone displaying the Ascend Federal Credit Union mobile app. The background shows a table with magazines.

Stay protected. Sign in to online banking today: https://ascend.org/online-banking-sign-in

March is Fraud Awareness Month -- a perfect time to educate yourself on new scams and the tools you can utilize to keep your information safe. At Ascend, being a member means more than simply managing your accounts. It means having dependable safeguards, smart technology, and local experts looking out for your financial security every day.


Three Simples Steps You Can Take to Stay Safe


1. Use Digital Wallet for secure payments.
Uploading your Ascend card to a digital wallet adds security to every transaction. Instead of using your actual card number, digital wallets generate a unique encrypted token — meaning your personal card information stays private and protected. Digital wallets are a safer option for both in‑store and online purchases, helping reduce exposure to fraud.

2. Monitor Your Credit in the Ascend App
Keeping an eye on your credit is one of the fastest ways to detect unusual activity. With the Ascend app, you can check your credit score, view changes, and spot potential issues early. Staying informed helps you act quickly if something doesn’t look right.

3. Manage Card Activity With Card Controls
Ascend Card Controls give you direct control over how, when, and where your cards are used. From the mobile app, you can:


  • Turn your cards on or off instantly
  • Set spending limits
  • Restrict transactions by location
  • Manage usage in real time

If your card is ever lost or stolen, you can immediately lock it using Card Controls or contact Ascend for assistance. Quick action helps prevent unauthorized use and minimizes potential financial impact.


Additional Ways Ascend Protects You


Local Service You Can Trust


When someone attempts to scam you, you don’t have to face it alone. Our locally based teams are available to help you identify suspicious activity on your account, answer questions, and take immediate action, when needed. Whether you visit one of our Middle Tennessee branches, call, or connect digitally, you can speak with someone who understands your situation and is ready to help.



Automated Fraud Alerts
Our automated fraud alert system continuously monitors your account activity. If suspicious activity is detected, we’ll alert you immediately. These alerts are a critical tool for safeguarding your account. Enable account notification alerts in the Ascend app (From the homepage, click “Menu” in the bottom right, and scroll down to the “Alerts” section) to stay informed in real time.


Protecting Your Personal Information
Scammers often rely on urgency to trick people into sharing sensitive information. Ascend will never ask for your PIN or one-time passcode through unsolicited calls, texts, or emails. One-time passcodes are designed to verify your identity — not to be shared with anyone.


If you’re ever unsure about a request for information, stop and contact us directly at 800-342-3086.



Fraud prevention works best when technology and awareness come together. At Ascend, your financial security is our priority.



Stay protected. Sign in to online banking today: https://ascend.org/online-banking-sign-in


Federally insured by NCUA.

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