RALEIGH, N.C. — October marks Cybersecurity Month, a timely reminder that in today’s increasingly digital world, members want to feel confident their financial institutions are safeguarding their money and personal information. That confidence is one of the many reasons credit unions continue to earn higher satisfaction ratings than traditional banks. 

Earlier this year, a J.D. Power survey^¹ found that credit union members reported significantly higher levels of trust, customer service satisfaction, and problem resolution than bank customers using the same metrics. During times of financial uncertainty, the study noted, members often lean more on their credit union partners for security, stability, and support.

That trust doesn’t happen by chance. It’s built through consistent service, strong community connections, and an unwavering commitment to member well-being — including financial and digital security. Credit unions’ not-for-profit structure allows them to focus on members first by promoting mindful money management, offering higher rates on deposits and lower rates on loans, providing emergency assistance, and championing long-term prosperity. Experts say this member-first approach helps create a foundation of financial resilience — and that’s why so many members say they trust their credit union.

But above all else, members want to feel confident that their credit union protects their money with an advanced security infrastructure.

Sandy Steward, Chief Technology Officer for Civic Credit Union, notes, “Our credit union uses a variety of highly sophisticated processes and practices to detect and avoid cyberattacks. Since we live in a fast-changing digital world, we encourage members to work together with us to mitigate risks to their accounts.”

Steward says that the acceleration of technology and the growth of generative AI has allowed cybercriminals to create more sophisticated attacks. She added that the growth of digital channels worldwide gives cybercriminals more opportunities.

“But just like scammers themselves, we are constantly evolving, and we maintain a constant vigilance,” she added.

Steward pointed out that Civic’s practices follow not only stringent cybersecurity standards, but the credit union also adheres to security requirements mandated by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA), the federal agency that oversees credit unions.

She noted that sometimes the most basic controls are the most effective, like members keeping their own information safe. “Even the most advanced cybersecurity systems we deploy can’t prevent attacks that exploit an easily guessed member password or loose security practices.”

Steward sums it up this way: “Credit unions really have one job: to protect member money for growth and prosperity. That means providing the structure, the products and services, and the support for their financial success.”

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About Civic Credit Union

Civic Credit Union is a not-for-profit financial institution created exclusively for North Carolina’s local government employees, volunteers, and their families. Built with purpose and powered by service, Civic delivers modern banking solutions through secure digital tools, personalized support, and in-person access across the state. With deep roots in public service, and a mission to meet members where they are, Civic is committed to helping those who serve their communities achieve financial well-being.