At least two local credit unions say they have seen recent increases in debit card fraud and have put in place security measures to restrict non-PIN transactions.

Wright-Patt Credit Union members traveling out of state are being asked to use their PIN number on all debit card purchases made outside of Ohio, which the credit union says is an “aggressive” proactive step against rising debit card fraud across the U.S.

The Fairborn-based credit union, Ohio’s largest, says it’s seeing more fraudulent activity in certain states affecting “a very low number” of members, said Tracy Fors, spokeswoman for Wright-Patt Credit Union. She said the credit union a week ago notified members of the security precautions.

“We’ve identified an increase in fraud in debit card transactions taking place outside of the state of Ohio,” Fors said. “We’ve blocked and placed security rules on signature based debit card transactions in certain states outside of Ohio.”

This is affecting financial institutions nationwide, according to Wright-Patt.

No local purchases are impacted, Fors said.

CODE Credit Union has issued a fraud alert saying it is limiting non-PIN transactions in some areas.

“A large number of fraudulent debit card transactions have been reported at various Walmart locations,” according to CODE’s fraud message on its website. “Signature based transactions will not be approved in affected areas as necessary.”

Customers can help protect themselves against fraud by making sure their financial institution has all their contact information up to date so the institutions can quickly verify purchases if need be. Fors also said it’s advised customers let their financial institution know if they’re traveling out of state.

Wright-Patt members with questions about their PIN can contact Wright-Patt at (937) 912-7000 or (800) 762-0047 and ask a representative.

CODE Credit Union members with questions are asked to call (937) 222-8971.