4 tools to protect yourself from fraud

The back-to-school season is here and while parents have been frantically planning to complete the shopping for new clothes and supplies, America First Credit Union is focusing on a special offer for university students. Here today is Nicole Cypers, PR and community manager, to share more.

America First Credit Union is holding orientation events at USU, WSU, UVU, DSU and SUU. Plus, your college student can get a pair of university-branded socks when they open a savings and checking account (with a free debit card) and download the America First mobile app. Offer valid until September 30 for U of U and BYU students.

Nicole also answered the following:

1. What is the easiest way to track your spending?

• Identify how much money is coming in and going out and where that money is going
• America First offers free Online Banking & Mobile Banking budgeting tools, including Money Manager, which will allow you to track spending, easily budget, manage debt and create a financial roadmap

2. What’s the best way to protect myself from fraud?

It’s important to know about free tools available to keep your personal information safe. Some things to keep in mind:

• Create smart, strong passwords.
  • Incorporate capital letters, numbers and symbols.
• E-mail wisely.
  • Be cautious about what you’re disclosing in e-mail messages. Never send your credit card information, social security number of other private data via e-mail.
• Shop safely.
  • If ordering online, be sure the site is secure.
• Take advantage of online tools.
  • America First holds member security as its upmost priority and offers services like Card Guard, which allow you to turn your card on and off and of course Apple and Android Pay.