Online Banking

The convenience of online banking is well documented.  These days bank customers are able to check their balance at any time, pay bills, transfer money to other accounts and even to other people.  It is quickly becoming a preferred method of banking for the majority of people.  Unfortunately, this growing popularity also leads to criminals attempting to steal customers' banking information.  This can lead to bank accounts being emptied and possibly even identity theft, which can lead to large sums of debt.  If you're one of the increasing number of online bankers, there are steps you absolutely NEED to take to protect your personal information.  Here is a look at the most urgent steps all online bankers should take. 

First of all, keep your anti-virus software up to date.  A virus or worm on your computer has the potential to open the door to hackers, who will exploit this hole to steal your personal information.  So it is best to keep your anti-virus software up to date and to scan your system for viruses on a regular basis.  The two most popular anti-virus software programs in use today are Norton Anti-virus and McAfee.  These programs allow users to download updated virus definitions, which basically means you are downloading the most up to date virus detection.  Some versions of these programs will update automatically whenever a new update is available.  For those who may not be able to afford Norton or McAfee, there are many anti-virus programs out there available as a free download.  A great free anti-virus option is AVG.  While not quite as advanced as the big two, AVG offers daily updates to their virus definitions and is a solid choice for those whose options are limited. 

Secondly, download anti-spyware software.  Spyware and other similar programs, can leech themselves onto your computer when you visit certain sites, many times coming from pop-up ads.  These programs will then transmit information from your computer that can be stolen and used against you.  As with anti-virus software, it is advised that you keep anti-spyware updated and scan on a regular basis to remove malicious programs.  Some anti-virus software now comes equipped with anti-spyware protection.  Be sure to check yours.  If you do not have anti-spyware software, there are many different programs available, many for free.  The most popular out there at this time is Ad-Aware.  Ad-Aware is free to download and offers frequent definition updates.  Running this program once or twice weekly should keep you well protected from malicious threats to your computer and personal information. 

Another thing to remember is to update your account often.  A simple change in password on a regular basis can help protect your information.  Never at any time, reveal your account number or passcode online, unless it is at the log in point.  Most banks will not ask for your passcode by e-mail or by any other method, except at the log in point on site.  If you receive an e-mail requesting your account number or passcode, treat it as fraudulent and report it to your bank.  They will then verify if the e-mail is in fact real or not.  It is always best to err on the side of caution, rather than be ripped off for being careless. 

When logging in to your account, always be sure you're logging into a secure area of the banks site.  Always look for a lock symbol near the bottom right corner of your internet browser.  If you do not see the lock on your browser, look for https:// as the lead in for the site.  The lock and/or the "s" means the site is secure.  This helps further protect you from fraud, as an unsecured log in will put your information at greater risk. 

Following the information outlined above will, in most cases, protect your personal information from fraud artists.  If you are still unsure of anything regarding online banking, check with your bank for more tips to help protect yourself.  They will surely be glad to help you out, to help make your online banking experience an enjoyable one.