Holiday Debit Card Safety Guide

The holidays are here. And with them comes a whole lot of cheer, and unfortunately, a small group of people who definitely wouldn’t make Santa’s nice list. That’s right, with the influx of holiday spending, fraudsters are out in full force, trying to swipe more than just your gift wrap.

Here are some simple tips to help you stay ahead of the bad guys and keep your cards safe:

Set Up Account Alerts

Speed matters. Real-time alerts are the fastest way to spot and stop fraud. Turn them on so we can notify you immediately when a transaction clears your account. Plus, the FAIRWINDS app makes it quick and easy to review your account on the go.

Update Your Contact Information

If we need to reach you, we need the right info. Make sure your phone number and email are current so we can connect fast if there’s an issue.

Shop Smart

Stick to retailers you know and trust. In-store? Use chip or tap-to-pay instead of swiping. Online? Look for “https://” and the padlock icon before entering any payment details.

Never Share Credentials

No financial institution will call you to ask for your full Social Security number over the phone, online banking password, or PIN. If someone does, it’s a scam.

Don't Click Unfamiliar Links

Fraudsters love sending links that install malware. If you get a suspicious text or email, check the sender and avoid clicking anything that feels off. Scammers often claim things like holiday package delays or account problems to trick you into clicking. They may look convincing — but that’s the trap.

Familiarize yourself with your financial institution’s official URL so you don’t get fooled by lookalikes. For example, www.fairwinds.org is correct, but fake URLs like www.fairwinds.com, www.fairwind.org, or www.fairwinds.banking.com can appear similar at first glance. Always double-check before you click.

Watch for Skimmers at ATMS and Gas Pumps

Before inserting your card, inspect the reader for loose parts or anything that looks tampered with. Skimming devices are standard during the holidays when people are distracted. If it looks off, don’t use it.

Know How to Lock and Unlock Your Card

If you misplace your debit card or suspect fraud, don’t panic; just lock it instantly in the FAIRWINDS app. It’s the quickest way to make sure your card can’t be used, even if it goes missing during your holiday shopping spree. And when you find it? Unlock it just as easily and get back to checking off that gift list.

Avoid Public Wi-Fi for Shopping

Holiday travel often means airports and coffee shops, but public Wi-Fi is a hacker’s playground. Use secure home Wi-Fi or mobile data when entering payment info.

The best way to pay for the holidays? Your debit card. The best way to keep it safe? Follow these steps and stay alert.

Remember, FAIRWINDS will never unexpectedly reach out through email, text, or phone calls and ask you to provide sensitive account information. If you receive a suspicious text message, phone call, or email, contact FAIRWINDS' official phone number at (800) 443-6887 to validate or report the communication you received.

Stay merry and secure this holiday season. And visit our Fraud Center for more tips to help you stay alert long after the holidays.