Protect Your Money in 5 Minutes or Less

We all know how to keep an eye on our wallets when we’re riding the subway or walking through Times Square. But in today’s world, the real pickpockets aren’t on the streets — they’re online. And the fastest way to stop them? Keep your devices updated.

Sounds simple, but it’s one of the most effective shields you have. Every software update is like changing the locks on your apartment door — if you skip it, you’re basically leaving a key under the mat for hackers.

Why Updates Matter in NYC

Hackers move as fast as the city. Criminals are always searching for weak spots in outdated software. Updates slam the door shut before they can sneak in.
Old systems attract trouble. Malware and viruses love outdated phones and laptops. Keeping your systems current helps block these digital freeloaders.
Performance gets a boost. Updates don’t just keep you safe — they keep your devices running faster, which means less loading time when you’re paying for that late-night pizza delivery.

Quick Tips to Stay Secure

Turn on automatic updates. Just like grabbing your MetroCard before heading to the station, make it a habit and you’ll never miss a beat.
Update your apps. From food delivery to ridesharing, outdated apps can be just as risky as outdated software.
Watch your Wi-Fi. Public hotspots at coffee shops, airports, or parks are hacker favorites. If you have to use them, avoid logging into your banking apps.
Lock your phone. A strong passcode or biometric lock (Face ID, fingerprint) is your best defense if your phone takes an unexpected NYC cab ride without you.

Think before you click. If an email or text looks sketchy (“You’ve won a free vacation!”), don’t take the bait.

Bottom Line

Protecting your money doesn’t require hours of effort. With just a few minutes — and the right digital habits — you can make your devices, and your finances, a whole lot safer.

Because here at MCU, we believe hard-working New Yorkers deserve to stay ahead of the scammers. And when it comes to your financial security? We’re Here for It.

👉 For more tips, visit our Fraud & Security Blog.

— Your MCU Team

We’re More Than Just a Financial Institution.

You’re looking for more than just a place to put your money. You are looking for someone to help you achieve your financial goals.

That’s where MCU comes in. We are a not-for-profit credit union, and we have been serving the financial needs of New Yorkers and their communities for over 100 years.

As a credit union, we exist to serve our members—not shareholders. This means our profits are funneled right back to you in the form of better products and services going even further to help you reach your financial goals.