Smart Ways to Keep Your Debit Card Safe
Helpful tips from UMe Credit Union to protect U… your card, your PIN, and your money.
Your debit card is one of the easiest ways to access your money, whether you’re withdrawing cash, picking up groceries, or making everyday purchases. But knowing how to use it safely is just as important as having it handy.
At UMe Credit Union, helping U protect your money is part of what we do. And while fraud tactics continue to evolve, there are simple steps U can take to make it harder for criminals to access your card information.
Here are five smart habits we recommend.
1. Tap whenever possible.
Not all payment methods offer the same level of protection.
Contactless payments use secure technology that generates a unique code for each transaction, making it more difficult for criminals to capture and reuse your card information.
Whenever possible, choose tapping over swiping your card. It’s fast, convenient, and offers stronger protection against certain types of card fraud.
UMe Tip: Our ATMs support contactless transactions, too! Simply tap your physical contactless UMe debit card instead of inserting it into the card reader. This helps reduce your exposure to card skimming devices.
2. Always cover your PIN.
One of the simplest ways to protect your account is also one of the most important: shield the keypad whenever U enter your PIN.
Criminals sometimes install hidden cameras or fraudulent keypad overlays to capture PINs. Covering the keypad with your free hand helps protect your information from prying eyes and cameras.
And remember, tapping your card doesn’t eliminate the need to protect your PIN.
UMe Tip: Make this your go-to habit at every ATM: Tap your card. Cover your PIN.
3. Take a moment to inspect the ATM.
Before using an ATM, give it a quick visual check.
Look for anything unusual, including loose card readers, bulky or raised keypads, damaged components, or attachments that don’t appear to belong.
If something looks suspicious, don’t use the machine. Choose another ATM and report your concerns to the ATM operator.
UMe Tip: Trust your instincts. If something about an ATM doesn’t look or feel right, it’s always better to use another machine.
4. Use your digital wallet for everyday purchases.
Apple Pay and Google Wallet aren’t just convenient. They’re also designed with security in mind.
When U pay using a digital wallet, your actual card number isn’t shared with the merchant. Instead, a secure digital token is used to process the transaction.
Digital wallets also use device security features, such as facial recognition, fingerprint authentication, or a passcode, to help prevent unauthorized payments.
UMe Tip: Add your UMe debit card to your digital wallet and use it wherever contactless payments are accepted. For ATM transactions, remember to tap your physical contactless debit card rather than your phone.
5. Monitor your transactions regularly.
Even with the best precautions, suspicious activity can happen. That’s why regularly reviewing your account is one of the most effective ways to catch potential fraud early.
Use UMe Online Banking or the UMe mobile app to keep an eye on your transactions. If U notice a purchase or withdrawal U don’t recognize, contact us immediately: (818) 238-2900 or contactus@umecreditunion.com
The sooner suspicious activity is reported, the sooner we can help U take the appropriate next steps.
UMe Tip: Make checking your account activity part of your regular routine. It only takes a moment, and it can make a meaningful difference.
Protecting your money starts with a few smart habits.
Fraud prevention doesn’t have to be complicated. A little awareness, the right payment methods, and a few consistent habits can go a long way toward protecting your financial information.
At UMe, we’re committed to helping U bank confidently and securely, whether you’re using an ATM, shopping online, or making everyday purchases.
And if U ever have questions or concerns about your debit card or account activity, we’re here to help.
Remember: Tap your card. Cover your PIN. Stay aware.
Have a question or notice something suspicious? Call us at (818) 238-2900 or send us an email at contactus@umecreditunion.com.
Disclaimer: U matter to Me (to all of us) at UMe — and that’s why we do our best to deliver helpful information on our blog. Please note the following: (1) UMe Credit Union works hard to make certain that the information we post here is as accurate as humanly possible. But as you know, information can change and evolve quickly. While we try to update the blog on a regular basis, the content of some older posts may not be correct or up-to-date. (2) Some destinations on the World Wide Web that we link you to will exist on external websites. UMe Credit Union does not officially endorse any connected sites, nor do/did we compensate or get compensated by any entities to be featured in our posts (unless otherwise noted). (3) Everyone’s situation is unique and we advise you to consult with our personal bankers or your finance, tax, or legal professional for advice individualized to you!