Always keep your credit or debit card in a safe and secure place. Treat it as you would cash or checks. Contact Kern Federal Credit Union immediately at 1-800-336-KERN (1-800-336-5376) if your card is lost or stolen, or if you suspect unauthorized use.
Do not send your card number through email, as it is not secure.
Do not give out your card number over the phone unless you initiated the call.
Review account statements carefully. Ask about suspicious charges.
Cancel and cut up unused credit and other cards.
If you receive a replacement card, destroy your old card.
When selecting a Personal Identification Number (PIN) don’t use any number or word that appears in your wallet (such as name, birth date, or phone number).
Ensure no one sees your PIN when you enter it.
Memorize your PIN. Don’t write it down anywhere, especially on your card, and never share it with anyone.
Shop with merchants you know and trust.
Make sure any internet purchase activity you engage in is secured with encryption to protect your account information. Look for “secure transaction” symbols like a lock symbol in the lower right-hand corner of your web browser window, or “https://…” in the address bar of the website. The “s” indicates "secured" and means the web page uses encryption.
Always log off from any website after a purchase transaction made with your credit or debit card. If you cannot log off, shut down your browser to prevent unauthorized access to your account information.
Safe-keep or securely dispose of your transaction receipts.
When using your Kern FCU card at an ATM:
Be aware of your surroundings when withdrawing funds.
Watch for suspicious persons or activity around the ATM. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, come back later or use an ATM elsewhere. If you observe suspicious persons or circumstances, do not use the ATM at that time. If you are in the middle of a transaction, cancel the transaction, take your card and leave the area, and come back at another time or use an ATM at another location.
Report all crimes immediately to the operator of the ATM or local law enforcement.
Consider having someone accompany you when using an ATM after dark.
Never allow a stranger to assist you with using an ATM.
When using a drive-up ATM, keep your car doors locked and your engine running.
Ensure no one sees your PIN when you enter it.
Refrain from displaying cash, and put it away as soon as your transaction is completed. Wait to count your cash until you’re in the safety of a locked enclosure, such as a car or home.
Take your receipts with you so potential criminals will not know how much you withdrew or how much money is in your account.
After completing your transaction, remember to remove your card, cash and any printed documents such as receipts or statements.
Safe-keep or securely dispose of your ATM receipts.
If you ever have a question, concern or comment, never hesitate to contact your local KERN FCU branch for assistance at (661) 327-9461 or (800) 336-KERN.
Kern Federal Credit Union is aware that the economy is creating financial hardships for many individuals and families. These hardships could mean that meeting financial obligations becomes difficult. If you find yourself unable to make your mortgage payment during this difficult time, we recommend that you take immediate action and call a certified housing counselor or your lender.
International Use of ATMs is now available in most countries. Due to extensive fraud on international ATMs, the processing of ATM activity outside the U.S., Canada, and Mexico is monitored closely. If you plan to travel outside of the U.S. in the near future, we recommend that you please contact us for additional information and/or travel cash alternative.
