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Stay Diligent Against Fraud

Security Center

Important Security Notices

  1. Democracy Federal Credit Union will NEVER contact you via phone, email, or text to request personal or sensitive information such as your online banking password or debit/credit card PIN.
  2. DO NOT disclose any sensitive information such as your debit or credit card number, PIN, expiration date, or any account details in response to a computer-generated call claiming to be from Democracy Federal Credit Union. It is crucial to NOT respond to these computer-generated calls. If you receive one of these calls and are uncertain about what to do, be sure to contact us immediately at (202)-488-5400 or 1-800-742-5582 for assistance and guidance.
  3. Democracy Federal Credit Union DOES NOT send emails with attachments requesting that you download information onto your computer.  If you receive a request that appears to be from Democracy Federal Credit Union with an attachment requesting that you download information to your computer for security, DO NOT DO IT.
  4. Democracy Federal Credit Union DOES NOT call, email, or text message members or potential members requesting information or a response about their accounts. For your protection, DO NOT provide your Democracy Federal Credit Union account information in response to any telephone calls, emails, or text messages you receive. If you receive a telephone call, email, or text message about your account with Democracy Federal Credit Union, as a precaution, please contact us before responding, at (202)-488-5400 or 1-800-742-5582 to verify the request.
  5. Use only trusted links and browsers to access Democracy Federal Credit Union Online Banking. Please be aware of spoofed websites being sent to you asking you to log in with your online banking credentials. These sites are trying to fraudulently access your real login credentials to gain access to your online banking accounts and steal your money. If you believe you have attempted to access a fake Democracy Federal Credit Union website, report it immediately at (202)-488-5400 or 1-800-742-5582, and then find the correct website, log in, and change your access information.

This is our website: https://democracyfcu.org/

If you supplied personal information via email, phone, social media, or other means to someone you suspect was scamming you, contact Democracy FCU at 800-742-5582.

Democracy FCU utilizes the latest software protection to maintain the security of our member’s accounts, but it’s important to always be proactive.

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with the different types of fraud criminals use today.

Democracy FCU will never solicit your password, date of birth, Social Security Number, account details or any other personally identifiable information via email. If you believe that you’ve received a phishing email, phone call, text or social media message from us, please contact us immediately!

Credit & Debit Card Fraud

To Dispute an Unauthorized Charge on Your ATM or Debit Card

Whenever you see a transaction that you don’t recognize on your statement, you should first contact the merchant in question and attempt to retrieve the funds. If you need further assistance, contact a Democracy FCU Member Service Representative. Before you make the call, please be sure to have the following items completed and available:

1.      Member Dispute Form
2.      A signed detailed statement.
3.      Any correspondence between yourself and the merchant, including receipts.
4.      If you are disputing an ATM transaction, please provide any receipts received.

To protect yourself from credit and debit card fraud, make sure you:

  • Sign your debit or credit card as soon as you receive them
  • Keep an eye on your card during the transaction process
  • Open bills quickly and reconcile your accounts monthly
  • Report any questionable charges promptly and in writing
  • Notify the card companies in advance of an address change

To protect yourself from credit and debit card fraud, do NOT:

  • Lend your card to anyone
  • Leave your cards lying around
  • Sign a blank receipt
  • Give out your account number over the phone unless you’re making a call to a company that is reputable.

Phishing Scams

Phishing uses email, text messages, and sometimes phone calls to get people to disclose private information that can be used for identity theft.

Phishing uses email, text messages, and sometimes phone calls to get people to disclose private information that can be used for identity theft. Do not respond to any email, text message, or phone call asking you to provide your social security number, credit card number, account number, or passwords/PINs. When we do contact you using one of these means, we will not ask you for that information. We will verify the information we have already on file. If you are contacting us, then we will ask you to verify who you are using information such as last four of your SSN, password, date of birth, or even last transaction or loan information. If you are ever unsure, please stop what you are doing and contact the credit union directly.

Online & Mobile Security

Online banking is an easy way to access your account or handle basic transactions without having to come to one of our branches. It is up to you to take the appropriate precautions to protect your data, including any information that can be used to access or transact against your account. However, we have some tips to help you stay safe while using our online banking platform.

Use a strong password that is not easily guessed and that includes letters, numbers, and symbols

  • Change your password regularly
  • Never share your password with anyone
  • Maintain active up-to-date virus and spyware protection on your personal computer
  • Avoid using public WiFi or any unsecured network

ATM Security

Enjoy the convenience of Democracy FCU’s ATMs at each of our locations but remember to use caution when using our ATM’s in terms of maintaining your privacy.

Be aware of people and your surroundings before, during, and after you use an ATM, particularly at night. 

  • When using one of our drive-up ATMs, keep your engine running, doors locked, and only the driver’s window open during the transaction.
  • Shield the key pad with your hand or body while entering your PIN at an ATM
  • Put your card, cash, and receipt away immediately. Do not count your cash at the ATM
  • Report any crimes to local law enforcement