Banking Security

• Create a unique password for all the different systems you use. If you don’t, then one breach leaves all your accounts vulnerable.
• Never share your password over the phone, in texts, by email, or in person. If you are asked for your password, it’s probably a scam.
• Use unpredictable passwords with a combination of lowercase letters, capital letters, numbers, and special characters.
• The longer the password, the tougher it is to crack. Use a password with at least 8 characters. Every additional character exponentially strengthens a password.
• Avoid using obvious passwords such as:
  • your name
  • your business name
  • family member names
  • your user name
  • birthdates
  • dictionary words
• Choose a password you can remember without writing it down. If you do choose to write it down, store it in a secure location.
• Configure your device to require a passcode to gain access if this feature is supported in your device.
• Avoid storing sensitive information. Mobile devices have a high likelihood of being lost or stolen so you should avoid using them to store sensitive information (e.g. passwords, bank account numbers, etc.). If sensitive data is stored then encryption should be used to secure it.
• Keep your mobile device’s software up-to-date. Mobile devices are small computers running software that needs to be updated just as you would update your PC. Use the automatic update option if one is available.
• Review the privacy policy and data access of any applications (apps) before installing them.
• Disable features not actively in use such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and infrared. Set Bluetooth-enabled devices to “non-discoverable” when Bluetooth is enabled.
• Delete all information stored on a device before the device changes ownership. Use a “hard factory reset” to permanently erase all content and settings stored on the device.
• “Sign out” or “Log off” when finished with an app rather than just closing it.
• Never click on suspicious links in emails, tweets, posts, nor online advertising. Links can take you to a different website than their labels indicate. Typing an address in your browser instead of clicking a link in an email is a safer alternative.
• Only give sensitive information to websites using encryption so your information is protected as it travels across the Internet. Verify the web address begins with “https://” (the “s” is for secure) rather than just “http://”. Some browsers also display a closed padlock.
• Do not trust sites with certificate warnings or errors. These messages could be caused by your connection being intercepted or the web server misrepresenting its identity.
• Avoid using public computers or public wireless access points for online banking and other activities involving sensitive information when possible.
• Always “sign out” or “log off” of password protected websites when finished to prevent unauthorized access. Simply closing the browser window may not actually end your session.
• Be cautious of unsolicited phone calls, emails, or texts directing you to a website or requesting information.
• Maintain active and up-to-date antivirus protection provided by a reputable vendor. Schedule regular scans of your computer in addition to real-time scanning.
• Update your software frequently to ensure you have the latest security patches. This includes your computer’s operating system and other installed software (e.g. Web Browsers, Adobe Flash Player, Adobe Reader, Java, Microsoft Office, etc.).
• Automate software updates, when the software supports it, to ensure it’s not overlooked.
• If you suspect your computer is infected with malware, discontinue using it for banking, shopping, or other activities involving sensitive information. Use security software and/or professional help to find and remove malware.
• Use firewalls on your local network to add another layer of protection for all the devices that connect through the firewall (e.g. PCs, smart phones, and tablets).
• Require a password to gain access. Log off or lock your computer when not in use.
• Use a cable lock to physically secure laptops, when the device is stored in an untrusted location.

Want to know more?

To learn more about information security, visit any of the following websites:

• OnGuardOnline.gov
• StaySafeOnline.org
• BBB.org/Data-Security
• US-CERT.gov

Mobile Device Protection

Create a complex passcode for your mobile device. Avoid using personal information (i.e., names and important dates) in your passcode. Do not share your mobile device passcode with anyone.

Enable available security features, such as an auto-wipe feature after excessive password failures or auto-lock after a specifed time frame. Keep your mobile device’s software up-to-date.

If your mobile device prompts you to install an operating system or firmware update, review the update and install it as soon as you can to address any identifed security vulnerabilities in previous update(s).

Disable features not actively in use, such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and infrared. Set Bluetoothenabled devices to “non-discoverable” when Bluetooth is enabled.

Utilize antivirus software where applicable (i.e., Androids, Windows, etc.).

Do not root, jailbreak, or otherwise circumvent security controls on your device. Compromised security controls could result in the introduction of malware onto the device.

When finished with the device, lock it to require a passcode before the device can be used again.

Mobile Applications

Download and install mobile applications only from trusted sources authorized by the device manufacturer, such as Apple’s App Store, Google Play, or the Windows Store.

Enable mobile device features to block mobile application downloads from unknown sources.

When available, require a passcode to download mobile applications to prevent unauthorized installation.

Protect yourself from fraudulent mobile applications by watching for these signs:

• Typos, poor image quality, or formatting issues.
• Low number of downloads.
• Negative user reviews.

Additionally, review other mobile applications created by the app developer to validate the application’s legitimacy.

If possible, create a passcode on any mobile application you install that may have access to your personal information.

When finished with a mobile application, always “Sign Out” or “Log Off” rather than just closing it.

Be On Alert

People are trying to steal your personal information. Remember to be on alert for the following types of threats to your mobile financial services.

Social Engineering

Phishing is a social engineering tactic used to obtain personal information by masquerading as a trustworthy individual through electronic communications. Some specifc types of phishing include spoofng, SMiShing, and vishing.

Unsecured Wireless Networks

If you can access an Internet network without entering a password or network key, unauthorized individuals are also able to do so. If you are on an unsecured wireless network, such as a mobile or WiFi hotspot, do not use your mobile device to transmit sensitive data.

Compromised Websites

Watch for potentially compromised websites. If the website has a security error or your browser gives you a warning about the site, use caution. If you go to one web address and are redirected to another, close your mobile device’s browser immediately and remember:

When in doubt, don’t click.