Internet Safety

Tuesday, July 26, 2016 1:39:00 PM

Internet Safety

In order to use online banking your browser must meet the following requirements: JavaScript enabled, 128-bit encryption enabled, session cookies enabled. We also recommend you use the latest, patched, version of any modern browser such as: Google Chrome, Apple Safari, Mozilla Firefox, Opera, or Microsoft Internet Explorer. We also highly recommend that the user has a personal firewall, virus and spyware protection that is up-to-date with all security patches and that the user's operating system is also up-to-date with all security patches.

Using the internet and online banking is convenient, secure and reliable. You can bank anytime and anywhere with an Internet connection. Your safety is increased by using online banking because you can check in the status of your accounts more frequently. You will know if your accounts were accessed unlawfully. This tool also gives you real time balances and immediate transfers between accounts. Using good judgement and foresight can help safeguard your information from identity theft and account fraud.

Things we do to protect our Customers

  • To access online banking, you must first apply for online access and authenticate. We use strong methods to authenticate every new online banking application. To manage your accounts, you must enter a secure area on our website.
  • The internet browser on your home computer must be able to support the level of encryption that our financial institution requires. If your browser cannot handle this encryption, you may need to install a more secure version of your browser.
  • Before using online banking, you must first create a secret password, log on, and select an image and phrase. This guarantees that you, and only you, have access to your accounts.
  • Once you have accessed our site, your personal information, history and transactions are protected by encryption software that coverts the information into code readable by only you and our financial institution.
  • Bank privacy policies protecting your personal and financial information are stringent and enforced. Each customer's information is treated with the maximum consideration. Guarding your privacy is our obligation.
  • Our E-Banking Department reviews several reports and items to monitor for suspicious activity.

What you can do

  • There are security procedures you can follow with your home computer to ensure safety for your online experiences. The following are suggested procedures that should be in place before accessing online banking.
  • Anti-virus software-Anti-virus software should be installed on all Internet-connected computers. This software should check for and update your anti-virus signatures regularly.
  • Anti-spyware software-"Spyware" is hostile software designed to take control of a computer's operating system without the informed consent of that owner or user. Your home computer should posses a trustworthy program to scan for the presence of spyware.
  • Patch Management-Most home computers run systems created by Microsoft. Home computers connected to the Internet have the ability to check for available patches to fix known exploits in these systems and programs. Home computers can be configured to automatically be notified of new patches as Microsoft makes them available.
  • Firewalls-A firewall is a protective layer between your computer and the rest of the Internet. There are some free products (Microsoft firewall available with Windows XP Service Pack 2, ZoneAlarm, etc.) and some subscription-based products (McAfee, Norton, etc.) that are offered. We recommend that you have a software firewall installed on your home computer to prevent an outside intruder from gaining access.
  • Passwords-Your password is the main element that allows access to your financial information. It is good practice to use a password that contains a variety of letters, numbers, and symbols, not one that may be easy to guess, such as birth dates, mother's maiden name, child or pet's names,or social security numbers. Change your password often. Do not file them in a rolodex or tape it to your computer monitor.
  • Encryption-When you access your bank accounts through our institution, the web page is secure and the information you transmit is almost certainly encrypted. However, email is generally unencrypted, so be wary of sending certain sensitive information such as account numbers and other personal information through email.
  • Disconnect-Always log off properly after you have completed your online business session. Follow the secure area exit instructions.
  • Spam with Viruses-Make sure all emails are free of any viruses before opening them. The best defense against this is to be sure your anti-virus software is current and scans your emails as they are received.
  • Phishing-Fraudsters will design fake websites that use a deceptive web address that is close to a genuine business name. They are trying to entice you to giving them personal information, and in effect could put charges on your credit cards and steal your identity. Always be sure you are on the correct website. Our financial institution will never send you an email requesting your personal information.

Helpful Links

Learn More
Anti-virus Resources
Firewall Resources
Anti-Spyware