Important Updated Debit Card Usage Info

Due to the rise of compromised cards throughout the United States and internationally, Advantage has recently added some additional security measures to your debit card for added protection. If you’ve previously opted out, please let us know if you’d like to take advantage of our updated recommendations below.

We are suggesting the following guidelines unless you notify us.

• When using your card at a grocery type store in Ohio, please run your transaction as a DEBIT and enter your PIN. 

Whenever you swipe your card to make a purchase outside of Ohio, a PIN will be required except  for:

• Internet transactions
• Phone purchases
• Restaurant or fast food establishments, bars, taverns, or nightclubs
• Gas purchases at the pump only- if a payment is made inside the station, a PIN will be required

When paying at the pump, it’s best to choose the credit option so that you don’t give out your PIN in case a skimming device is attached.

All international transactions will be blocked unless you enter your PIN, except for:

• ATM  transactions
• Internet purchases  

Please take a moment to look over the basic important facts you should know about using your debit card.

FRAUD MONITORING
You are getting the most sophisticated fraud detection technology with experienced fraud analysts who monitor your transactions, 24x7x365. Each transaction is evaluated and if a high-risk alert is detected, an analyst will contact you and inquire about the questionable transaction. This is why it is so important we have a good working phone number for you. If you are contacted by Fraudwatch, please call them back at 866-842-5208. If your transactions are getting denied, you may reach us during business hours at 419-529-5603. To report your card lost or stolen, please call the credit union or 1-800-791-2525.

DAILY LIMITS
Your daily spending limit is established during the opening process and is based on your account history. If you don’t know what your limit is or would like to change this amount, please call the credit union. We can adjust your limit to meet your spending needs. We can increase the spending limit for a day, if you have a one-time large purchase to make or we can increase it for a week, such as what may be needed if you’re on vacation. Let us know what we can do to help! It’s also important to know that the spending limit refreshes everyday at approximately 3:30 PM (EST), meaning you can spend up to your limit between 3:30 PM (EST) from day to day. If you have any questions or would like to make any adjustments to this limit, please let us know.

TRAVELING
If you will be traveling out of Ohio or internationally, please keep in mind of the above guidelines and let us know ahead of time so we can note your account as such. This will be seen by the fraud analysts and it will help you avoid blocked debit card transactions.

ATMs
Look for an Alliance One ATM to avoid a foreign surcharge fee. We are members of this network of over 5,000 ATMs nationwide. Download the ATM Locator app to your smartphone from your Google Play or iTunes app store, or by scanning a QR code at http://www.allianceone.coop/mobile-app. For more details, visit Alliance One ATMs or call us at 419-529-5603.

As always, review your transaction history closely and if you notice anything suspicious, let us know. We are here to provide you with a convenient way to make purchases, with the confidence in knowing it’s our top priority to keep you safe! Advantage Credit Union ultimately holds responsibility if the merchant shows proper processing practices were met.

Thank you for your membership and for allowing us to take care of you!