SRI Federal Credit Union Blog - Page 2 of 15

Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.: Economic Justice, Financial Empowerment, and the Credit Union Mission

As we honor the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. this year, we’re reminded that his vision for equality went far beyond civil rights alone. Dr. King believed true justice required economic opportunity, dignity in work, and fair access to resources, values that continue to guide the credit union movement and the work we do every day at SRI Federal Credit Union.

Dr. King’s Enduring Vision for Economic Justice

In the final years of his life, Dr. King spoke openly about the deep connection between civil rights and economic security. Through initiatives like the Poor People’s Campaign, he called attention to systemic inequality in wages, housing, and access to financial opportunity. His message was clear: lasting equality is impossible without economic empowerment.

That belief closely mirrors the foundation of credit unions. Built on the principle of people helping people, credit unions exist to serve, not to profit, and to ensure members have fair, affordable access to financial services that support long-term stability.

Carrying the Legacy Forward and What’s New This Year

Over the past year, SRI Federal Credit Union has continued to translate these values into action in meaningful ways:

Stronger Member Protections: We implemented California’s new Trusted Contact Authorization protections ahead of the statewide requirement, adding safeguards for members age 65 and older and reinforcing our commitment to protecting vulnerable populations.
Expanded Digital Access: With the launch of our enhanced online and mobile banking platform, members now have easier, more secure access to tools that help them manage their finances anytime, anywhere.
Fraud Awareness & Education: As digital payments continue to grow, we’ve increased education around P2P and account-to-account fraud, empowering members with knowledge to protect their financial well-being.
Support During Uncertainty: During periods of economic and governmental disruption, including recent federal shutdown concerns, we stepped up with timely communication and assistance programs designed to support members when they need it most.
Ongoing Community Outreach: From financial education to community engagement, we continue building relationships rooted in trust, service, and shared success.

Each of these efforts reflects Dr. King’s belief that systems should uplift people, not create barriers.

Empowering Members Through Action

Honoring Dr. King’s legacy isn’t just about reflection; it’s about progress. Financial empowerment often starts with small but meaningful steps: building an emergency fund, reducing debt, improving credit, or planning for the future. When individuals gain stability, families grow stronger, and communities thrive.

At SRI Federal Credit Union, we’re committed to being a partner in that journey, offering guidance, fair products, and personalized service designed around our members’ real lives.

Moving Forward Together

Dr. King once said, “An individual has not started living until he can rise above the narrow confines of his individualistic concerns to the broader concerns of all humanity.”

Posted in Financial Literacy, Hello World

New California Law Helps Protect Seniors from Financial Scams

Beginning January 1, 2026, California’s new law (SB 278) strengthens protections for seniors against financial scams and exploitation. At SRI Federal Credit Union, we believe in protecting our members, which is why we are implementing these protections ahead of the official effective date.

This law, championed by Bill Dodd, is designed to help prevent elder financial abuse by creating an extra layer of security and support.

What Is SB 278?

SB 278 requires financial institutions to maintain an Emergency Financial Contact Program for members ages 65 and older. This allows members to name a trusted contact who we can notify if suspected abuse or unusual activity occurs during employee-assisted transactions.

At SRI Federal Credit Union, we are adopting these protections early to help keep our senior members safer, sooner.

How Our Early Program Works

To make enrollment easy, we will include a Trusted Contact Authorization Form inside the 2025 year-end account statements.

With this form, members can:

Designate a trusted contact person (such as a family member or close friend)
Help us provide added layers of protection against fraud and scams

If you would like to complete the form before receiving your year-end statement, simply contact us, and we will be happy to send it to you.

Key Protections You Can Expect

As part of this program, we may:

Place temporary three-business-day holds on suspicious, staff-assisted transactions over $5,000
Notify the trusted contact when potential fraud is detected
Add a protective review period before large sums leave your account

These protections mainly apply to employee-assisted transactions, such as teller withdrawals and in-branch transfers.

What This Means for Seniors

If you are 65 or older, you may notice:

Additional questions from staff when a large withdrawal appears unusual
Possible short delays to help protect your funds
Supportive outreach designed to keep you safe

These safeguards are designed to protect you, not to slow down legitimate access to your funds.

Our Commitment to You

At SRI Federal Credit Union, your safety comes first. Implementing these protections early reflects our commitment to helping prevent fraud and protect the financial well-being of our members.

If you have questions or would like a Trusted Contact Authorization Form sent to you before your statement arrives, please contact us.

Posted in Fraud, Hello World

Government Assistance Loan Program Blog Post

How SRI Federal Credit Union Supported Members During the Government Shutdown

At SRI Federal Credit Union, our mission has always been clear: stand by our members, especially when uncertainty strikes. When the possibility of a government shutdown first emerged, we knew many federal employees could face sudden financial strain. To ensure our members wouldn’t face that challenge alone, we acted early, designing and launching our Government Shutdown Assistance Loan Program before the shutdown even began.

This proactive effort allowed us to respond immediately, giving members timely support when they needed it most.

A Program Built Before the Crisis Hit

Understanding the potential hardships ahead, SRIFCU created the Government Shutdown Assistance Loan to provide short-term relief and help members bridge the financial gap during missed pay cycles. The loan offered:

Loan limits based on net pay, up to $10,000
An 18-month term
A competitive rate of just 4.99% APR*
ZERO interest for members who pay off their loan within 60 days of their return-to-work date
Eligibility for government employees who are current SRIFCU members

This structure ensured flexibility, affordability, and fast access to funds, without creating long-term financial burden.

Measurable Impact During the Shutdown

The success of the program exceeded expectations, reflecting both the strong need and the trust our members place in their credit union. During the shutdown period:

$436,595 in total loan balances were funded
Many loans have already been fully repaid, highlighting responsible borrowing and the effectiveness of the loan design

Members repeatedly shared that the loan “saved them”, providing essential relief when paychecks were paused, and expenses continued. From covering rent and groceries to maintaining daily stability, this program helped make a difficult time manageable.

Our lending team’s quick response, compassionate approach, and efficient processing were praised consistently. Members expressed deep appreciation for the speed at which they were supported and the reassurance of knowing their credit union had prepared for them in advance.

Expanding Support Through Community Engagement

Beyond direct financial assistance, SRIFCU also strengthened relationships with the federal employee community. As part of our ongoing outreach initiatives, Paco presented at an AFEU (Ames Federal Employees Union) meeting, highlighting:

The benefits of credit union membership
SRIFCU products and services designed specifically for members to save money
The Government Shutdown Assistance Loan Program and its successful impact

The presentation received exceptional feedback, and Paco was invited to return for future opportunities, further deepening our connection with AFEU members and expanding awareness of the resources available to them.

Our Commitment Remains Strong

Although the shutdown has ended, our dedication to supporting members during every season of life continues. Whether through emergency assistance programs, competitive lending solutions, or personalized financial guidance, SRI Federal Credit Union will always prioritize the financial well-being of our members.

Thank you to every member who trusted us through this challenging period. We are honored to serve you and proud of the resilience shown across our community.

Posted in Financial Literacy, Hello World, Loans

❄️ Seasons Greetings From all of us at SRI Federal Credit Union

The holiday season is here, and at SRI Federal Credit Union, this time of year reminds us how grateful we are for our incredible members. Whether you’re preparing for family gatherings, traveling, or simply enjoying some well-earned rest, we’re here to make your holiday banking as smooth and cheerful as possible.

Hot Chocolate & Cookies Starting Next Monday!

Beginning next Monday, we’re spreading a little extra holiday cheer in-branch. Stop by and enjoy complimentary hot chocolate and cookies while you take care of your banking. It’s our small way of saying thank you for being part of our community.

Come warm up, recharge, and leave with a smile. We’d love to see you.

🎄 Winter Holiday Schedule

Please take note of our updated holiday hours:

Wednesday, December 24 – Thursday, January 1, 2026 – Closed for the winter holidays

We encourage members to plan ahead for any in-branch services they may need. Online banking, mobile banking, and ATMs remain available 24/7 throughout the holiday period.

🛠️ The Credit Union Staff Is Available to Assist You

Even during the SRI International campus holiday closure period, our staff remains committed to supporting you. Several convenient options are available:

Limited telephone & email support
eDeposit – fast & easy remote deposits
Mobile & Online Banking, with Bill Payer available 24/7/365
Emergency branch access by appointment only during the SRI International December shutdown

To request an emergency appointment, please use the Contact Us form on our Holiday Hours page linked HERE:

💸 Holiday Loan Special

Need a little extra help making the season bright? Our Holiday Loan Special offers up to $2,500, a 12-month term, and a competitive 6.99% APR, a simple, affordable way to cover gifts, travel, or unexpected expenses without added stress. Click HERE to apply.

🔁 Skip-A-Payment Program

To help ease financial pressure during the holidays, members in good standing may skip one loan payment every six months on most loans.
Exclusions: 1st Mortgages and Home Equity Lines of Credit.

It’s a flexible option designed to give you breathing room when you need it most. Click HERE to apply.

From all of us at SRI Federal Credit Union, we wish you a joyful, peaceful, and safe holiday season. Thank you for being part of our family!

Posted in Events, Hello World, Loans

Amazon Issues Urgent Alert: 300 Million Customers at Risk Amid Holiday Cyberattacks

As the 2025 holiday shopping season hits full stride, Amazon is warning all 300+ million of its customers to stay on high alert. With Black Friday sales stretching longer each year, cybercriminals are exploiting the shopping surge, and new data shows their tactics are more aggressive and convincing than ever.

Why Amazon Is Sounding the Alarm

In a November 24 email sent to users, Amazon warned that scammers are increasingly impersonating the company to steal sensitive personal and financial information. These attacks aren’t new, but they’re evolving fast, especially with artificial intelligence making fake messages, spoofed websites, and fraudulent alerts look more realistic.

According to Amazon, attackers are reaching out using:

Fake delivery or “account issue” notifications
Social media ads for unreal “too-good-to-be-true” deals
Messages from unofficial channels asking for login or payment info
Suspicious or unfamiliar links
Unsolicited tech support phone calls

Amazon stresses that customers should treat any unexpected message requesting credentials or payment information with extreme caution.

New Report Confirms Rising Holiday-Themed Scams

A fresh FortiGuard Labs report backs up Amazon’s warning. The findings reveal:

18,000+ holiday-themed domains registered in the last three months
750 confirmed malicious
19,000+ domains impersonating major brands, including Amazon
2,900 malicious brand lookalike domains

Cybercriminals are crafting domains with slight variations, easy to miss during the rush of holiday shopping. Experts warn that AI is accelerating the sophistication of these scams, making fake order confirmations, spoofed retailer websites, and forged customer service interactions more convincing than ever.

The FBI Confirms Massive Financial Damage

In a new public service announcement on November 25, the FBI warned that brand impersonation attacks are fueling a surge in account takeovers. Since January 2025, thousands of victims have reported losses totaling more than $262 million.

These scams often involve:

Phone, text, email, or instant message contact from someone pretending to be customer support
Claims of “fraudulent activity”
A link to a realistic but fake website
Victims entering their login, MFA code, or one-time passcode
The attacker using those credentials to reset the password and take over the account entirely

Although the FBI’s alert focuses on financial institutions, the tactics apply to all major brands, including Amazon.

How Amazon Says You Can Protect Yourself

Amazon is urging customers to take the following steps to protect their accounts year-round:

1. Use Only Official Amazon Channels

Rely exclusively on the Amazon app or amazon.com for customer service, order tracking, refunds, and account updates.

2. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

2FA adds a crucial layer of protection against unauthorized access.

3. Use Passkeys

Passkeys let you sign in using biometrics (face, fingerprint) or your device PIN, a safer alternative to passwords.

4. Remember What Amazon Will Never Do

Amazon will never:

Ask for payment over the phone
Request payment information via email
Ask you to verify account credentials through links or messages

If you receive messages asking for any of those, assume it’s fraudulent.

Stay Vigilant This Holiday Season

With AI-powered scams accelerating and brand impersonation attacks spiking, Amazon’s warning is timely and necessary. Whether you’re shopping for holiday deals or simply checking order updates, a moment of caution could save you from a costly scam.

Stay safe and always confirm before you click.

Posted in Fraud, Hello World

Beware of Bitcoin ATM Scams: What You Need to Know to Stay Safe

As technology evolves, so do the ways scammers try to take advantage of unsuspecting victims. One of the latest tactics involves Bitcoin ATMs—machines that let users buy cryptocurrency using cash or debit cards. While legitimate Bitcoin ATMs exist, scammers have found ways to exploit them to steal money from innocent people.

At SRI Federal Credit Union, protecting our members from fraud is a top priority. Here’s what you need to know about these scams and how to stay safe.

How the Scam Works

Fraudsters often pose as trusted authorities, such as law enforcement, government agencies, or even your utility company. The scam usually follows a similar pattern:
You receive a call, text, or email claiming you owe money, have a fine, or need to make an urgent payment.
The scammer pressures you to withdraw cash immediately and deposit it into a Bitcoin ATM.
They provide a QR code or Bitcoin wallet address, instructing you to scan or enter it at the ATM to “make the payment.”
Once you send the money, it’s converted to cryptocurrency and transferred instantly, making it nearly impossible to recover.
Some scammers even pretend to be a friend or family member in distress, claiming they need your help right away.

Common Red Flags

Be alert for these warning signs:

You’re told to make an urgent payment to avoid arrest, disconnection, or other consequences.
The caller asks you to use a Bitcoin ATM, gift cards, or wire transfer.
You’re given a QR code or wallet address to “pay” someone.
You’re pressured to keep the transaction secret or told not to talk to your financial institution.
If any of these happen, stop immediately and contact SRI Federal Credit Union before sending money.

How to Protect Yourself

Never send money via Bitcoin ATMs to someone you don’t personally know.
Verify requests by contacting the organization directly using an official phone number or website.
Don’t trust caller ID; scammers can spoof real numbers.
Report suspicious calls or messages to the FTC (ftc.gov) or your local police department.
Educate family and friends, especially older adults, who are often targeted.

Tap Cards Are Here at SRI Federal Credit Union!

Updated 02/01/2026

Big things are happening at SRI Federal Credit Union! We’re excited to announce that Tap Cards, also known as contactless payment cards, are now available for all SRIFCU Visa® Credit and Debit Cards. This means every member can now enjoy a faster, easier, and more secure checkout experience with just a simple tap.

Posted in Accounts, Fraud, Hello World, Loans, Uncategorized

A New Online Banking Experience Is Coming to SRI Federal Credit Union

We’re thrilled to announce that SRI Federal Credit Union is launching a brand-new Online and Mobile Banking platform on Monday, October 27th!

This upgrade is part of our continued effort to bring you a faster, more secure, and easier-to-use digital banking experience. Here’s what you need to know as we make the transition:

Posted in Hello World, Online Banking

Come Join the Party: Be Part of the SRIFCU Supervisory Committee!

SRI Federal Credit Union is proud to be ranked as the #1 Credit Union in the Nation. To continue building on that success, we invite members to consider serving on the Supervisory Committee.

Posted in Hello World

Fraud Alert: Scammers Posing as U.S. Marshals

At SRI Federal Credit Union, protecting our members from fraud is always a top priority. We are alerting you to a new phone scam that has been reported in our community.

Posted in Financial Literacy, Fraud, Hello World