Online Banking Security

Security State Bank has security measures to protect your account information. Those measures can be very effective with your help and cooperation. Some common sense and easily implemented precautions can help you safeguard your personal information.

Strong Passwords

Complex passwords are a simple way to enhance online banking security. Security State Bank requires that passwords be between 8 and 12 characters in length and contain: at least one letter, one number, and a special character.

Here are some additional tips to ensure your passwords are secure:

• Avoid using personal information in your password such as birth dates, or names of family members and pets
• Do not use the same password that you use for other sites
• Do not use the password auto — save feature on your browser
• Do not share your password
• Change your password periodically

Anti-Virus Protection

Make sure the antivirus software on your computer is current and scans your emails as they are received.

Email Safety

Email is generally not encrypted so be wary of sending any sensitive information such as account numbers and other personal information in this way.

Sign Off & Log Out

Always log off by following the bank’s secured area exit procedures.

Access Tips

How you access your online information may also place you at risk. Consider the following:

• Do not use public Wi-Fi to access online banking
• Do not use a public computer, such as a library or a hotel lobby computer, to access online banking
• Always log out of your online banking session

Monitor Your Accounts

When you check your accounts regularly, you can let your bank know immediately if you encounter anything that does not seem right.

Investment in Security

Banks have high standards for safeguarding customers’ personal information. Some areas monitored by bank regulators include:

• Access controls
• Physical restrictions
• Data encryption
• Modification procedures
• Dual control procedures
• Monitoring procedures
• Response programs
• Environmental hazard protections

Online & Mobile Threats

Here are some ways cyber-criminals may try to steal from you:

Phishing

Attempts to steal your personal information through fraudulent emails or texts. The requests are often very believable, luring victims to a site that asks for important financial details, such as account numbers and Social Security numbers.

Card Skimming

Attempts to gain a victim’s personal information by tampering with ATM machines. Devices can capture magnetic stripe and keypad information. Examine machines closely!

Spyware

This is criminal software that a victim unknowingly loads on a personal computer. Once it is installed, information is sent to criminals. Up-to-date security software on your computer is the best defense!

Free Credit Reports

Monitor your personal security all year long. Federal law permits consumers to obtain a free report annually from each of the three major credit reporting agencies.

To order your free credit report, go to the only authorized source: annualcreditreport.com or call 1-877-322-8228.

Studies show that those who regularly monitor their accounts online often detect fraud earlier than those who rely solely on paper statements.

Identity Theft

Protect your private information. Review these helpful tips to avoid and identity theft and fraud, provided by the FDIC.