Ariza Credit Union would like to advise its members and the public to be cautious when conducting online transactions using their debit card as there have been increased fraudulent attempts in the market recently.

When using your debit card, be sure to do the following:

• Memorize your pin to avoid writing it where someone can access it.
• Report loss or stolen cards immediately. Call Ariza on 440-1759 or email eservices@arizacu.com.
• Always keep your card in sight. Giving your card to someone is like giving them cash, be sure to get your card back after each purchase. Never lend your card to anyone.
• Sign up for Ariza Mobile Internet Experience (AMIE) to view and review transactions online or on the app frequently.
• Use legitimate sites only when using your card online. If you are unsure of the site’s legitimacy, use known payment options such as PayPal, Google Pay, Amazon Pay, Apple Pay, American Express, Visa Checkout or Masterpass.
• Do not share your card number, CVV code and expiry date via email, social media, messaging services (example WhatsApp) or with unauthorized persons.
• Before entering any personal information on a webpage, check the URL to make sure it starts with HTTPS and is preceded by a locked padlock icon.
• Do not download unknown software or applications on your devices. Always download from reputable sources.
• Use a strong password (capital letters, numbers, and symbols). Change your password periodically.

Ariza Credit Union protects members by active monitoring of card transactions throughout its network. Potentially compromised cards will be replaced as soon as possible. Any card affected by mass fraud attempts on the Ariza network will be reimbursed.

In addition, the CONNEX network (Grenada Co-operative Bank, Ariza Credit Union, GUT Credit Union and Communal Credit Union) is upgrading all its Visa Debit Cards from the traditional magnetic-stripe card to EMV/Chip cards, short for Europay, MasterCard and Visa and refers to cards with a smart chip. The EMV/Chip card will provide improved security for purchases and is globally accepted. Unlike magnetic-stripe cards, every time an EMV card is used for payment, the card’s chip creates a unique transaction code that cannot be used again. When making purchases in person, you will be required to enter a PIN. The EMV Visa International Debit Card will continue to have the traditional magnetic stripe on the back of the card with the additional security feature of a chip, which allows it to be used at both chip and traditional magnetic stripe terminals.

To learn more about fraud prevention methods, follow Ariza on  Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.