In today’s digital world, even the most cautious person can fall victim to a cyberattack. Whether through phishing scams, data breaches, or malware, having your personal data or financial information stolen can be a stressful and overwhelming experience.
At Members Credit Union, we prioritize your online safety and are here to help guide you through the recovery process. If you suspect your accounts have been compromised, this step-by-step guide will help you take swift action to limit the damage and reclaim control over your digital life.
Before you panic, it’s important to identify the signs of a possible breach. Common indicators include:
• Unauthorized charges on your credit or debit cards
• Notifications of password changes you didn’t make
• Emails or messages sent from your accounts that you didn’t send
• Locked-out access to your email, bank, or social media accounts
• New accounts or loans you didn’t open showing up on your credit report
If any of these apply to you, it's time to act.
Immediately disconnect from public Wi-Fi or any unsecured internet connection. Run antivirus and anti-malware scans on your phone, tablet, and computer to ensure the attacker hasn’t installed malicious software that could still be harvesting your data.
If your antivirus program finds anything suspicious, quarantine or delete the threat. Then restart your device in safe mode, and avoid logging into sensitive accounts until you’ve confirmed your system is clean.
Cybercriminals often exploit system vulnerability to access your personal accounts and devices.
If you’ve been hacked, assume your login credentials may be compromised. Use a secure device and start changing passwords for your most important accounts, especially:
• Mobile banking and digital banking platforms
• Email accounts
• Credit card logins
• Social media accounts
• Shopping or payment services like Amazon, PayPal, or Venmo
Create strong, unique passwords for each site and enable two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever possible. Consider using a password manager to store and manage them securely.
One of your first calls should be to Members Credit Union or your card issuer to report fraud or suspicious activity. We can help you:
• Lock or freeze your accounts
• Cancel compromised cards
• Issue new cards or account numbers
• Review recent transactions for unauthorized activity
You can also log in to your online banking account and activate transaction alerts, which notify you of any future account activity. If you notice any misuse of your financial services, immediate action can help prevent bigger losses.
To guard against identity theft, it’s crucial to monitor your credit reports. You can request free reports from all three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) at AnnualCreditReport.com.
Look for any:
• New accounts you didn’t open
• Inquiries from lenders you don’t recognize
• Address or name changes
If you find anything suspicious, place a fraud alert on your credit file and consider a credit freeze, which prevents anyone from opening new accounts in your name without your authorization.
Report the incident to the appropriate agencies:
• FTC (Federal Trade Commission) – File a report at identitytheft.gov
• Local law enforcement – Especially if your identity or money was stolen
• Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) – If the scam originated online
Having official documentation can help in disputing fraudulent charges and protecting your identity going forward.
Once your immediate accounts are secured, take a moment to review your digital habits and security practices. Ask yourself:
• Do I reuse passwords across different accounts?
• Am I using public Wi-Fi without a VPN?
• Is my software regularly updated?
• Have I shared personal information on unsecured platforms?
These questions help identify how the hacker gained access, how the hacking occurred, and how to prevent it from happening again.
Enrolling in an identity theft protection service can offer added peace of mind. These services typically monitor your:
• Social Security number
• Financial accounts
• Credit reports
• Dark web activity
They’ll alert you to new activity and help you recover from future incidents faster.
At Members Credit Union, we also offer resources to help you strengthen your financial and online security. If you’re not sure where to start, speak with a representative for personalized recommendations.
Even after taking corrective steps, vigilance is key. Check your financial statements weekly. Set up alerts through your MEMCU mobile app for every login or transaction. Regular monitoring ensures that if anything suspicious happens again, you’ll catch it early.
Using a mobile device? Always ensure your mobile banking apps are up to date to avoid vulnerabilities.
Knowledge is one of the best defenses. Stay informed on:
• Common phishing scams and red flags
• How to recognize spoofed emails or fake websites
• The importance of 2FA and password security
• New scam tactics, including social engineering and deepfake fraud
Read our other blogs on digital banking safety, cybersecurity, identity theft, and network protection to stay ahead of hackers.
Discovering that you’ve been hacked can be unsettling, but you’re not powerless. By following these steps, you can secure your accounts, protect your identity, and minimize long-term consequences.
And remember—your interest in staying proactive about online security can make all the difference. By acting quickly and wisely, you can reduce the risk of serious damage to your finances and reputation.
At Members Credit Union, your safety is our priority. Whether you need to freeze a compromised card, report a suspicious transaction, or get help with a recovered hacked account, our team is here for you.
If you think your MEMCU account may have been affected, contact us immediately or come into a local branch to access helpful tools and support. We’re ready to walk with you every step of the way.