Don’t be an easy target: How to protect your smartphone

Smartphones and other mobile devices have made our lives easier in many ways. But, their allure and high resale value has also made them a prime target for thieves. While there’s no way to completely eliminate risk when owning one, there are ways you can protect yourself, your device and all the important data it contains.

Keeping your device safe

When out and about, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings. If an area feels unsafe it may be best not to use your device, or to use it discreetly. Never leave your device visible in an unattended vehicle. Take it with you or lock it in the glove compartment or trunk.

Write down your device’s make, model number, serial code and unique device identification number. This information can be given to the police in the event that your device is stolen.

Protecting your data

The first step in protecting your data is to establish a password to restrict access to your device. This can help prevent unwanted usage charges or use of your personal information if the device is stolen. Keep up-to-date with updates and patches to your devices’ operating system. These updates often include new protections when vulnerabilities in software arise. Also be sure to back up vital data to a trusted computer.

Installing anti-theft software on your phone can help in the event that it is lost or stolen as well. These apps are able to locate your device, lock your device remotely or even wipe sensitive data from your device using any computer. Legislation has been introduced in some states and nationally to require new smartphones to be sold with a preloaded “kill switch.”

In the event of theft

If your device is lost or stolen there are some steps you can take. First, change the login credentials to any online accounts you have access to through your mobile device. If you have installed anti-theft software on your device, you may be able to use it to locate your phone or wipe the data remotely. Do not attempt to retrieve a stolen phone yourself. Always report the theft to your local authorities as well as your wireless carrier. Finally, if you’ve purchased insurance on your mobile device find out what your plan covers in case a replacement is necessary.

We want to hear from you! Leave any tips and questions in the comment section of the blog!

©Copyright 2014, BlueSpire Strategic Marketing. All rights reserved.

Packing for a Holiday Trip? 8 Things to Remember!

Forgetting something important at home can waste precious time searching for a replacement while on vacation or a business trip. Don’t let it happen to you. Make a list of your must-haves, save it and check it every time you are packing. Here are some ideas to help.

Don’t forget:

1. Cell phone charger. A phone that runs out of juice during a vacation can be a major inconvenience. Make the charger one of the first things you pack, and have a designated spot for it so it’s easy to find. Consider bringing a car charger if you will be on the road.
2. Program your phone. Having the numbers for airlines, hotels and taxis at your destination can be a great time-saver. You may want to program this travel checklist into your phone as well. Don’t forget the phone itself!
3. Passport/photo ID, tickets and itinerary. Make sure your passport is up-to-date in advance of a trip to a foreign country — don’t forget that you need a passport when traveling to Canada and Mexico. Remember your photo ID even for domestic travel. An itinerary with addresses, opening and closing times, ticket costs, etc. can be a huge help in getting where you need to go.
4. Medications and eyewear. Prescription and other medications should be in your carry-on luggage. Bring extra pills in case of travel delays. If you wear prescription glasses or contacts, these should be in your carry-on bag as well.
5. Adapters. Want to use electronics in a foreign country? You’ll need an appropriate adapter to plug it in. A converter may also come in handy if a voltage change is needed (such as for razors or curling irons).
6. Camera, memory card and batteries/charger. If this is a special trip and you forget your camera, you’ll be kicking yourself and won’t want to be at the mercy of a disposable camera.
7. Gifts. Traveling for the holidays? Don’t leave the gifts behind! You may want to ship them ahead to avoid dealing with unwrapped gifts in your luggage.
8. Credit card. Renting a car, seeing sights, paying for dinner, treating yourself to a special souvenir — your credit card simplifies travel and is easier to carry than a wad of cash.

Home or away, we’re with you. Access Air Academy Federal Credit Union through online or mobile banking and easily keep tabs on your finances. Visit www.aafcu.com to learn more.

©Copyright 2013, BlueSpire Strategic Marketing. All rights reserved.

Brick or Click?

No Matter Your Preference, We’re Here for You

Cordera Branch

 

More and more Americans turn to their computers and smartphones to access their    financial accounts – nearly 63%, according to one study.* And AAFCU strives to offer the latest, greatest and safest methods for doing just that. But not everyone prefers virtual financial solutions, and some services just can’t be replicated online. For those who still like to make a deposit in person, talk to a loan officer face-to-face or store valuables in a safe deposit box, we’re here for you, too.

Our service representatives can help you with a range of needs at any one of our nine convenient locations. In addition to taking care of your everyday transactions, such as deposits, withdrawals, check cashing and fund transfers, we can suggest additional products and services to help meet your financial needs. Our representatives can answer questions about your current accounts or help you open new ones. We can walk you through the steps of applying for a loan. We also offer products in our branches that aren’t available with our online services, such as:

• Safe deposit boxes

• Certified checks

• Notary services

In-branch service representatives can also demonstrate online banking to those who have yet to try it. If you’re curious about online banking and bill payment, or our mobile resources, stop by and let us show you. We can help you find a comfortable balance between online and in-person account management.

Stop by and See Us!

Technology doesn’t have to replace personal service entirely. Visit any branch for help with your financial needs and to discover more of what AAFCU has to offer.