In early 2017, one of America’s big-three credit bureaus, Equifax, had a security breach impacting over 143 million Americans by taking their names, Social Security numbers and other personal information. While data breaches are a risk of modern life, knowing how to keep yourself – and your money – safe while online isn’t as daunting at it may seem. Follow our guidelines for safe online banking practices to help secure your data.
- Install anti-virus and desktop firewall software on all computer systems you use to access account information. Do not forget to regularly update the software to keep up to date.
- Create “strong” passwords that include combinations of upper- and lowercase letters, numbers and symbols. Never share login information with a third party and change your passwords regularly.
- Do not use public or other unsecured computers for logging into online banking or other sensitive data.
- Review your latest login date and time, account balances and transition details regularly.
- Take advantage of and regularly view system alerts (balance alerts, transfer alerts, password change alerts, and transaction limits).
- Immediately report any suspicious activity on your account. Waiting to deal with the issues could lead to identity theft.
- Be careful using Cell Phones to download important documents or opening bank account information. Software downloaded has the potential to contain spyware, which can allow a hacker to access your information, so use discretion when installing items to your phone or computer.
Most security breaches can be easily avoided if users follow basic security measures. Ensure you’re keeping yourself – and your money – secure by cultivating safe online banking habits. Visit any of our locations today to learn more about online banking.