Online Banking

1. Check the URL carefully
   • Ensure the website starts with “https://”- the “s” indicates it uses a secure connection.
   • The domain name should exactly match your bank’s official site (e.g., https://www.neighborsfcu.org and https://neighborsfcu.onlinebank.com), not a variation or misspelling like neighborsfcu-login.com.
2. Verify the Security Certificate
   • Click the padlock icon in the browser's address bar.
   • Avoid sites with certificate warnings as they may be fraudulent or insecure.
3. Use official links only
   • Access online banking by:
     • Typing the address directly into your browser
     • Using a saved bookmark that you know is legitimate
     • Clicking a link on the official Neighbors FCU site
     • Follow a link from a verified Neighbors FCU email
4. Look for signs of authenticity
   • The page design, logo, and language should look professional and consistent with Neighbors FCU branding
   • Watch for spelling errors, odd phrasing, or urgent login prompts - these are red flags
5. Keep your system and browser updated
   • Regular updates help protect against phishing and fake site attacks
   • Use antivirus or browser security tools that flag unsafe sites

In today’s digital world, a strong password is the first line of defense against cyber threats. Weak or reused passwords can make your accounts vulnerable to hacking, identity theft, and data breaches. Follow these key principles to create secure passwords that protect your information:

1. Use length and complexity - Aim for at least 12 to 32 characters. Combine uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. The longer and more varied your password, the harder it is to crack.
2. Avoid common phrases - Don't use personal information such as birthdays, names, or simple sequences like "12345" or "password". Attackers often try these first.
3. Create passphrases - Instead of a single word, use a random phrase that's easy to remember but difficult to guess, such as BlueRain!CoffeeBridge92.
4. Use unique passwords for every account - Reusing passwords across sites means one breach can compromise all your accounts.
5. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) - Whenever possible, add an extra layer of security that requires a code or device confirmation in addition to your password.
6. Use a password manager - These tools can generate, store, and autofill complex passwords securely, so you don't have to remember them all.

By following these practices, you'll significantly reduce your risk of unauthorized access and keep your online information safe.

Email is a convenient communication tool, but also a prime target for scams and data theft. Requests for confidential information should always be treated with caution. Here’s how to protect yourself and your information:

1. Verify the sender - Check the sender's email address carefully. Look for misspellings or unusual domains that might mimic legitimate sources. If in doubt, contact Neighbors directly at 225-819-2178 or neighborsfcu.org. Do not use the phone number or links provided in the email if you suspect the email is fake.
2. Be skeptical of urgency - Phishing emails often pressure you to act quickly. Take time to verify before responding - legitimate organizations rarely demand immediate action.
3. Never share sensitive data by email - Do not send passwords, financial information, or personal identifiers through email, even if the request seems authentic.
4. Check for red flags - Poor grammar, unexpected attachments, or generic greetings can signal a scam.
5. Report suspicious emails - Notify Neighbors immediately so we can investigate and prevent further threats

By staying alert and following these steps, you can help protect sensitive data and reduce the risk of email-based cyberattacks.