Member Newsletter -December 2024
Reflections on the Year
Like you, the holidays are a wonderful time for reflection for us at the credit union. We look back on how we have been able to serve with purpose throughout the year: the welcoming of new members, the loyalty of our long-time members, and the outreach within our community. We are thankful for your trust in us to fulfill your needs with new cars and boats, get keys or renovate your dream home, and build your savings for you to live off. We are grateful for that trust in serving you.
As important as it is to reflect on where and when we have been able to help over the past year, we must keep moving forward and looking to when and where we can help in the coming months. We need to continue to monitor and adjust our rates to be competitive. We will evaluate products and services to ensure our portfolio reflects what you need and will use for financial success. We must, and will, upgrade technology and security to ensure your money is safe and secure. In 2025, GKCU will convert to a new processor to deliver a more advanced and streamlined core operating system. It will update how we do business to serve you better, whether visiting a branch, calling or emailing, or using our online/phone access. We are excited about this change and know you will be, too. Another step we will reflect upon as a building block in the legacy of GKCU. Happy Holidays to you and your family from all of us at ~ GKCU
Holiday Blues.
"I would never fall for that." "That would never happen to me." "I know all the tricks hackers try." ~Said all people. The holidays are like the championship game for fraudsters and hackers. When you think you've heard and seen it all, you let your guard down, and they've got you.
Falling victim to scams is not based on education, income, or geography. In fact, most scams are very simple in nature, giving the appearance of straightforward updates to personal information or caring outreach for emergencies. The more you are in tune with these types of communications, the safer you can be; airing on the side of caution is always best.
Contact the business directly, local law enforcement, or the Federal Trade Commission if you suspect fraudulent attempts. And remember, GKCU will never ask for your detailed account information. READ MORE
Online Protection:
*Emails and Links: (especially if unsoliciated). Do not reply or click links without verifying legitimacy of sender.
*Web Payments: Use secure methods such as a credit card or reputable service like PayPal or Apple Pay. Avoid using debit cards or wire transfers.
*Authenticity: Only input information into secure sites (https://). Check reviews and ratings, as well as product details, before buying.
Season of Giving.
As the hustle and bustle of the holidays gets underway, it is also time to remember those around us and make a difference in their lives. Many organizations serve those in need in our community, as well as across the country and worldwide. Giving your time and financial donations helps organizations meet the greatest needs for food, shelter, clothing, and even gifts of toys during the holiday season. So, where and how you help can make an immediate impact and leave a rippling impact for a lifetime.
First, decide where you will give. Choose a cause (individually or as a family) that you feel good about or aligns with your mission. It can serve locally in the community or have a more global outreach. Be sure to check to make sure the organization is reputable, too.
Next, decide what you will give. Will you take up a monetary collection, or is giving your time more beneficial? Asking the organization for its greatest need is an excellent place to start.
Finally, determine how often you will give. Is this a holiday tradition or an ongoing journey? Some organizations require only annual giving, while others appreciate support throughout the year. The most important factor is that you are giving when and where you can. A little can go a long way and make the holidays brighter for us all.
*Updates: Keep your security software updated and report phishing emails, if applicable.
*Monitor Accounts: Check accounts, including credit reports, often and report suspicious activity immediately.
*Step Away: if a deal looks too good to be true, trust your gut and close the browser. Moderate deals are normal but 60-70% off are usually scams.
Get Some Extra Green for the Holidays
Holiday Loan applications available until December 24, 2024.
Reading All the Way
Several GKCU employees participated in the Black River United Way’s Day of Reading within schools throughout our two counties. It was a great way to share time with students to teach the importance of being well-rounded.