Top 5 Rules to Stay Safe When Banking Online

Today it’s more common than not to bank online. It’s convenient and helps you stay on track financially. Before you bank online, though, you should know the top rules to follow so you don’t put your account at risk of hackers.

Change your Passwords Often

Make sure your passwords are strong and change them often. Set an alert on your calendar to change them every 90 days. When you change them, choose a strong password that includes upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.

Don’t use obvious names or dates that anyone could get their hands on and guess as your password.

Don’t Use Public Wi-Fi

Don’t check your bank balance or conduct any bank transactions unless you’re on your home Wi-Fi. Any public internet connection is not secure. Even if it seems secure, always assume the worst and that anyone can access your browsing history, accessing your account information.

Make Sure the Bank Uses Two-Factor Authentication

Don’t use online banking if your bank doesn’t offer two-factor authentication. This means even if someone steals your password, they can’t get into your account without the second authentication.

Set the second authentication to go to a device that a thief couldn’t get to. For example, if someone stole your phone, they could get into your bank account with the password and a text message from the bank.

Set it to your email or a phone call to your home phone. This makes it harder for hackers to access your account.

Never Click on ‘Bank’ Emails

Hackers send phishing emails which they make look like they came from the bank. When you click on it, the website asks for your sign in credentials or other personal information. The problem is you are handing your information right over to the hackers.

If you receive an email from what looks like your bank, contact them and ask them about it. Don’t click on the link and enter any information.

Another easy way to tell if it’s legit is to look at the ‘to or from’ name. It’s often from an obscure address. Also, look closely at how the email is worded. There are usually telltale signs when it’s not from your bank.

Type the Bank’s Address in your Browser Yourself

Avoid clicking on the bank’s link in an email or even in Google. It’s your bank, you know the web address. Enter it yourself to avoid accidentally clicking on a phishing link and giving away your information.

Summary: Be Careful Banking Online

Banking online is helpful, but when you aren’t careful, it’s an easy way to give away your personal information. Think about where you’re accessing your account and how. Make sure you know your surroundings and that you’re accessing the right website. If you receive any strange emails or suspect you’ve been a victim of identity theft or hacking, contact your bank right away to put a freeze on your account.