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Reminder that all our branches and drive-thrus will be closed on Monday, October 9th in observance of Columbus Day. You will be able to access your accounts via using our Digital Services & at any of our nearly 85,000 Surcharge-free ATMs. We will reopen during normal business hours on Tuesday, October 10th.
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Security Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I suspect my online information has been compromised?

If you are a Greater Alliance member and believe you are a victim of fraud or identity theft, immediately contact our Service Support Department at 201-599-5500. Read more about Reporting Identity Theft.

How did my user name and password get compromised?

Most accounts are compromised by responding to a phishing e-mail, keylogger or Trojan Horse virus that was installed on your PC through a fraudulent e-mail or possibly by someone with whom you may have shared your user name and password. To prevent this from happening, we recommend the following actions:

  • Install anti-virus software on your computer.
  • Update your virus definitions regularly.
  • Use good judgment before opening strange or unexpected e-mail attachments and/or files.
  • Back up your data.

What is phishing?

Phishing (pronounced “fishing”) is an electronic scam that attempts to obtain confidential personal or financial information from its target. It takes the form of a fake message, usually an e-mail, which appears to be from a financial institution or service provider. The message usually includes the company name, logo and a link to a website which instructs you to update your account information by providing your Social Security number, bank account number, PIN, password, birth date, etc. with a dire warning if action isn’t taken. A phisher can then use your personal information to commit fraud. Learn more about phishing and how to protect yourself.

What is a keylogger?

A keylogger is a computer program that logs each keystroke a user types on a keyboard and saves this data into a file or transfers it via the Internet to a pre-determined remote host. It also can capture screenshots of the user activity, log-in passwords, record online chat conversations or take different actions in order to find out what a user is doing. Often downloaded inadvertently by users clicking on links in fraudulent e-mails, keyloggers pose the most dangerous threat to user privacy.

What are Trojan Horse programs?

Trojan Horse programs (including Remote Access Trojans or RATS) can be hidden in games, videos, music files or programs downloaded from the Internet or e-mail that install a malicious program on the target’s computer. Many anti-virus programs will detect and remove Trojan Horse programs, but must be regularly updated to be effective.

Is it ok to send account information via e-mail?

No. Regular e-mail is not secure. Never e-mail personal financial information such as account numbers or your Social Security number. However, you can use the secure message feature within our online banking product.

Is it ok to provide my password when asked?

No. Greater Alliance FCU will never ask for your password. We have alternative methods of verifying your identity.

How can I prevent becoming a victim of fraud or identity theft?

The number and sophistication of phishing scams sent out to members is continuing to increase dramatically. As a general rule you should be very careful about giving out your personal information over the Internet.

  • Be suspicious of any e-mail with urgent requests for personal financial information.
  • Don’t click the links in an e-mail, instant message or chat if you suspect the message might not be authentic or you don’t recognize the sender or user’s address.
  • Avoid filling out forms in e-mail messages for personal financial information.
  • Always ensure that you’re using a secure website when submitting credit card or other sensitive information via your web browser.
  • Remember not all scam sites will try to show the “https://” and/or the security lock. Get in the habit of looking at the address line as well.
  • Regularly log on to your online accounts and check your bank and debit card statements to ensure that all transactions are legitimate.
  • Ensure that your browser is up-to-date and security patches have been applied.
  • Always report “phishing” or “spoofed” e-mails.

Learn more about how to protect yourself.

How secure is the Greater Alliance mobile app?

Greater Alliance FCU offers extensive security features to ensure that you can conduct your banking in a safe and private online environment. The same industry standards we have always employed to keep our public website and our Online Banking secure also extend to our Mobile Banking application.

The Greater Alliance mobile app is safe and secure, protecting the confidentiality of customer account information and the integrity of all transactions.

What can I do to protect my security and privacy?

Just as when you bank online from your computer, there are some simple steps you should take to ensure the security of your information and protect your privacy when you use the Greater Alliance FCU mobile app.

  • Protect your Online Banking password. It is your key to accessing your accounts. Do not reveal it to anyone.
  • Memorize your Online Banking password. Never store it on your mobile device, or write it on paper that you keep near your phone or carry with you.
  • Do not choose passwords that incorporate your name, telephone number, address or birthday or those of any close friend or relative.
  • Never leave your mobile device unattended while using the Greater Alliance FCU mobile app.
  • Use your phone’s built-in lock function. Virtually all mobile hardware includes a password-protect option. Set it to require a password every time the phone starts up – an extra step, but it can help protect you if the phone is lost or stolen.

What happens if I lose my phone?

If your phone is lost or stolen, it is unlikely that someone could access your account information unless they also know your Online Banking user name and password. However, to be safe, you should contact Greater Alliance FCU as soon as possible by calling 201-599-5500.

To whom should I report internet fraud incidents?

If you are concerned that you have received fraudulent e-mail, disclosed confidential information or have questions about online security, immediately contact Service Support Department at 201-599-5500 or e-mail us at info@greateralliance.org

What is Greater Alliance doing to help protect me from fraud?

Greater Alliance is committed to providing you with a secure online experience that protects your confidential information, our website and our apps. Read more about Our Online Security Commitment.

Where can I get more information on internet fraud prevention?

There are many websites that provide helpful information. View the Identity Protection Resources area of our Security Center for a list of resources.

Greater Alliance FCU is committed to protecting the integrity and security of your information and financial transactions. Learn more about our Online Security Commitment.