ONLINE SAFETY TIPS

To better serve and protect you, we use a variety of technologies and techniques to secure the products and services we provide you access to. In addition to the various steps we’re taking to ensure the security of your information online, you can also enhance your level of security and help control risks when using your personal computer or when managing your finances online.

ONLINE SECURITY GUIDANCE

Computer or Laptop Security
  • Always use passwords to protect yourself.  Protecting your computer with a password will help keep your files and personal information safe in the event you experience a home break in and they access or take your computer.
  • Password protecting the files you save on your computer provides another layer of security. Always password protect files such as account statements, loan paperwork etc. Consider using a password different from your computer password.
  • Control physical access to your computer or laptop; that is, do what you can to prevent unauthorized persons from using your computer.
  • Secure, log off or lock your workstation in the event you need to walk away from it for any reason.
  • Select passwords that would be difficult for others to guess and change them often.
  • Do not share your passwords with anyone. Do not save passwords on your website or leave written notes with your password near or on your computer.
  • If you notice suspicious activity relating to banking or credit card accounts that you access online, promptly report that activity to us using the contact information found on our web site, your account statements or your local directory.

Virus Management

  • Install a well known virus management software on your computer, use and update it regularly.
  • Be cautious when downloading and running programs or Java or ActiveX applets as they may contain unsecure data which cannot be filtered, for example, using firewall or anti-virus software.
  • Use extreme caution when opening Email received from unknown sources and pay special attention to any attachments. Do not launch or open an attachment from an unknown source. When in doubt . . . delete it without opening it.

If you suspect your computer has a virus, here are some tips you may want to consider:

  • Make sure your anti-virus software has the most recent updates. If you aren't sure, please contact the software maker.
  • Run a complete scan using your updated anti-virus software.
  • As suggested by your anti-virus software, remove any dangerous or harmful files from your computer.
  • Change your email password.
  • Visit one of our branches or call us so we can walk you through changing your Online Banking User ID and Password.
  • Contact any other financial companies that you do business with online.

Computer Software

  • Understand and use the security features provided by your computer software, such as those included in many operating systems, browsers and word processing systems.
  • Ensure that your browser uses the strongest encryption available and be aware of the level of encryption used when you connect to various sites and applications. For example, our Online Banking currently requires the use of 128-bit encryption.
  • Use only software from reliable and well known vendors.
  • Stay up to date of the latest release and patch levels of the computer software you use.

ENCRYPTION/BROWSER CHECK

Encryption is the scrambling of data into a code that is unreadable to anyone who does not have the key that deciphers it. While managing your finances online with us, all your account information is protected by 128-bit encryption to maintain the privacy and confidentiality of your data. To take advantage of strong encryption technology, you will need to obtain a secure browser, one that supports 128-bit encryption.

LINKS TO THIRD PARTY WEB SITES

In most cases, we will provide links to websites are provided solely as informational references on topics that may be useful to you as a user of website or online services. Third party websites may have different privacy policies and/or security standards governing their sites.

EMAIL TIPS

Do not provide your email address to third party websites without reading the privacy and security policies and terms and conditions of these sites to ensure you understand the circumstances in which your email address will be used.

If you suspect suspicious or fraudulent activity related to your banking account(s), please notify us immediately. You should also contact your Internet Service Provider so they may block suspect companies from your email inbox. To learn more about how to control and manage your incoming emails, please refer to your Internet Service Provider or email providers help or user guide.