Safe Online/Mobile Banking Tips

Strengthen your password. A password with a good mix of upper and lower case letters, numbers, and symbols is much harder to hack. A good rule of thumb is to base your password on a phrase such as “My favorite place to visit is the beach!” and use the first letters Mfptvitb! in the password. Another password tip, the longer the password the harder it is to crack and never use personal information such as name, birth date, or relative names in your password.

Secure your mobile phone with a password or pass code. Adding a password or pass code for your phone adds another layer of security for all of the functions that you use your phone for.

Never ever share your password or user ID. A legitimate business would never ask you to provide your online banking credentials to access your accounts. Peoples Bank would NEVER call, email, or text you to ask you to provide your online banking credentials, account numbers, or debit card numbers.

Only access online banking on a Secure Network.  Generally speaking, public WIFI networks like the ones in your local coffee shop or library aren’t very secure since they need to accommodate as many people as possible. The low level of security makes them a target for hackers.

Use Licensed anti-virus software. Invest in a good anti-virus software for your computer. Have it check for updates automatically or plan to check it yourself during a specific time each week.

Ensure your computer or mobile phone operating system is updated. Never skip the updates to install the latest version of your operation system. System updates include security upgrades that prevent infections by most known malware.

Watch for Phishing Emails. Phishing emails are designed to look like legitimate messages from actual banks, businesses, or other organizations. In reality, criminals create the messages in an effort to steal your money, identity, or both. They want you to click links that will take  you to a website that looks authentic but is really just there to capture your personal information or perhaps to distribute malware.

Ways to spot a Phishing Email:

• The email has improper spelling or grammar
• The hyperlinked URL is different from the one shown
• The email urges you to take immediate action
• The email requests personal information
• The email says you’ve won a contest you haven’t entered
• The email asks you to make a donation
• The email includes suspicious attachments

Monitor your accounts frequently. Monitor your accounts on a regular basis for unusual activity. Take advantage of our balance and transaction alerts available through our mobile banking app. Be cognizant of password and email change alerts that are also sent. If you did not make the changes or have unusual activity, contact Peoples Bank immediately.