Security Tips

Internet Banking can provide safe and secure delivery of information to you any time of the day. You can improve the security of your accounts by reviewing your account transaction on a frequent basis. Yet, with all the security that we have invested, we cannot control the security of your computer. You have been granted secure access to our site but, if you have malicious software (malware) or spyware installed on your computer, you are at risk. Here are some steps to take improve the security and safety of your internet banking accounts:

Keep your computer up-to-date with the latest security patches. One of the ways hackers and malware authors wreak havoc is through flaws in computer applications and code. That is why Microsoft and others  release dozens of updates each year to shore up holes in their software.

Install a good anti-virus program on your computer. Sometimes, you may receive an email or download a program that is damaging to your computer. A good anti-virus will update itself to the latest threats and halt these programs before they can hurt your computer. 

Install a good anti-spyware program. These days, hackers are not just interested in vandalizing, they want to make money from information they might obtain from your computer. Social Security Numbers and other personally identifiable information have street value and can be useful in identity theft schemes. Programs exist that can steal key strokes, revealing passwords or sites that you visit. A good anti-spyware program can identify this activity and notify you so you can block any information from going out.   

Keep up to date on the latest internet and security threats
http://www.symantec.com

What is Phishing?

The FDIC, in their March 13, 2004 document, "Guidance on Safeguarding Customers Against E-Mail and Internet-Related Fraudulent Schemes" describes Phishing as follows: 

"Phishing involves the use of seemingly legitimate e-mail messages and internet Web sites to deceive consumers into disclosing sensitive information, such as bank account information, Social Security numbers, credit card numbers, passwords, and personal identification numbers (PINS). The perpetrator of the fraudulent e-mail message may use various means to convince the recipient that the message is legitimate and from a trusted source with which the recipient has an established relationship, such as a bank. Techniques such as a false "from" address or the use of seemingly legitimate bank logos, Web links and graphics may be used to mislead e-mail recipients."

In most cases, as in the scheme at hand, a link in the e-mail directs the recipient to a fraudulent site that requests that the recipient "validate" or "update"  their financial or personal information. Often, the fraudulent website looks authentic. However, consumers may notice that the URL is slightly different. 

Please read the current discussions before the House of Representatives Subcommittee on enhancing data security at www.fdic.gov/news/news/speeches/others/spmay1805.html 

NEVER GIVE YOUR ACCOUNT NUMBER OR PIN NUMBER IN RESPONSE TO AN EMAIL.