Online & Mobile Banking Security Tips

Your Security is Our Priority

At Citadel Credit Union, we take protecting your confidential information very seriously. Our Online & Mobile Banking tools utilize advanced security technology including SSL, encryption, and firewalls to safeguard your financial information. We also constantly monitor and assess the security of our website and mobile apps.

As an extra layer of protection, Citadel uses a Security Access Code (SAC) when you first login from a new device or account. A SAC is a temporary code you receive via contact information on file, to access Online Banking. This code is used to identify and authenticate you before granting access to your account(s) through Online Banking.

While we do everything we can to protect your information, please keep in mind there are many simple things you can do to help safeguard your personal information as well.

Create a Strong Online/Mobile Banking Password

It sounds obvious, but creating a strong password is a bit of an art form. Selecting a password that can be easily remembered without writing it down and can’t be easily guessed or compromised by password-cracking programs is of utmost importance. Strong passwords are typically at least eight characters long and should contain a mixture of upper and lower case letters, numbers and special characters (' . , # @ : ? ( ) $ / \).

Password Tips:

✔ DO use a phrase from a movie, song lyrics, or something else someone else is unlikely to think of.
✔ DO use a mix of special characters, numbers, and upper and lowercase letters.
✖ DON’T use information or numbers that could be easily guessed or obtained such as your children's names, mother's maiden name, birthdates, addresses, license plate numbers, phone numbers, or the kind of car you drive.
✖ DON'T use your user ID, Social Security Number, or email address as your username or password.
✖ DON'T use all the same character, such as 4444444, or consecutive keys on a keyboard, such as QWERTYUIOP.

Protect Your Password

✔ DO create a different password for each online account or application.
✔ DO change your passwords a few times a year. (Be aware: Your Citadel Online Banking password will periodically expire and you will be asked to change it)
✔ DO sign up for Security Alerts in Online Banking to let you know when your password has changed, a new SAC has been requested, and other security-related events occur.
✔ DO change your password right away if you suspect someone has obtained it.
✖ DON’T post your password on or around your computer.
✖ DON’T give your password to anyone over the phone.

Protect Your Devices

✔ DO password-protect your device(s) and take advantage of built-in security functions such as auto-lock, fingerprint login, and other features.
✔ DO always log out of Online & Mobile Banking when finished.
✔ DO keep your devices up-to-date by staying current on device, operating system and application updates.
✖ DON’T use free, unprotected Wi-Fi networks to perform sensitive transactions. If you must use an unprotected Wi-Fi network, be sure that https:// is enabled for any sites you visit. Look for the “s” after http at the beginning of the website address or a lock symbol.
✖ DON’T leave your device unattended. If your phone or table is stolen or lost, contact Citadel immediately at ? to remove your device from your Online or Mobile Banking profile. Changing your Online Banking username and password is also recommended.

Report Suspicious Activity

If you experience something out of the ordinary in Online and Mobile Banking, please contact us at (800) 666-0191 immediately to let us know.

Beware of Phishing Scams

Phishing is the fraudulent practice of sending emails or text messages purporting to be from a reputable company in order to get an individual to reveal personal information, such as passwords and credit card numbers. As a friendly reminder, Citadel will never ask for your confidential information via email or text message. Please report any phishing attempts to Member Care at (800) 666-0191.

Questions or Concerns?

We’re here to help. Contact Member Care at (800) 666-0191, video chat, visit a branch near you or send us a message.