From account information to personal data, the Internet has become an optimal place for criminals to get information. The good news is there are simple ways that you can safeguard your online accounts and personal computers.
Do not share your login access codes for Online Services with any third party.
Do not access your bank, brokerage or other financial services information at Internet cafes, or other public spaces.
Limit financial information on your laptop or hand-held device.
Never leave your computer unattended while using any online banking or investing service.
Do not respond to emails appearing to be from your bank, government office or other entity that request personal information such as User IDs, Passwords, PINs, Social Security Number, etc.
Delete email messages that appear to be spam or contain suspicious attachments.
Do not open unexpected attachments from known or unknown sources.
Enroll in Online Banking with BillPay and receive Online Statements to help avoid mail fraud.
Set up Balance Alerts as a secure way to monitor your finances by having emails or text messages of your account activity sent to you.
Virus Protection, Spyware and Firewalls
Update your virus protection software regularly.
Use Spyware detection and elimination programs.
Use a firewall, especially if you have a high-speed, or "always on," connection to the Internet, such as DSL or cable modem.
Check to make sure that your virus definitions and anti-Spyware are up-to-date.
Perform frequent scans on your computer to help detect viruses.
Keep your operating systems and software up-to-date by applying the latest security patches.
Learn more about types of online fraud, includingSpyware and viruses.
Avoid using an automatic login feature that saves your Password.
Always log off of Online Services when you're finished. Do not just close or shut-down your browser.
Enable the "time out" feature that locks your computer when unattended.
Never share your Password or PIN with anyone.
Never write down your Password or PIN where others may find it.
When selecting a Password and Secret Questions and Answers, don't use information easily linked to you such as your date of birth, pet's name or especially your Social Security Number.
Change your Password frequently for greater protection, we recommend at least every 72 days.
Use both numbers and letters in your Password and avoid reusing the same Passwords.
Avoid using Passwords that are names of people, sports teams, cities or common phrases found in dictionaries.
Security Savvy: Dos & Don'ts
Do not download files from strangers or unknown sites.
Do not click on email links from unknown senders.
Do use online banking services so that you have electronic records and you don't have to safeguard all the paper statements, and review your bank statements regularly.
Delete any personal information stored on your computer before you dispose of it. You can do this by using a "wipe" utility program, which overwrites the entire hard drive.
Read Web site privacy policies for answers to questions about access, accuracy, security and control of personal information the site collects, as well as how sensitive information will be used and whether it will be provided to third parties.
Set up your Wireless equipment correctly. Read the instructions and follow the manufacturers recommended security implementation.