October 10, 2023
Online banking offers unparalleled convenience, but it’s crucial to prioritize security to protect your finances and personal information. At Citizens First Bank, we’re committed to ensuring your online banking experience is safe and secure. In addition to the fundamental practices, here are five new and essential tips to enhance your online banking security further.
Many banking apps now offer biometric authentication methods like fingerprint or facial recognition. Utilizing these features adds an extra layer of security, as these biological traits are unique to you, making it significantly harder for unauthorized users to access your account. Embracing biometrics enhances convenience while bolstering security.
Mobile banking apps often request various permissions to function correctly. Take a moment to review these permissions and grant only the necessary ones. Be cautious of apps asking for excessive access to your device’s features. Limiting app permissions minimizes the potential risks associated with malicious activities.
Phishing attacks have become increasingly sophisticated. Avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from suspicious emails, messages, or social media posts. These may lead you to counterfeit banking websites designed to steal your login details. Always access your online banking platform directly through the official Citizens First Bank website or official mobile app.
Most banks, including Citizens First Bank, offer account activity alerts. Take advantage of these features to receive real-time updates on your account activities. If an unusual transaction occurs, you’ll be notified promptly, allowing you to respond quickly and prevent further unauthorized access.
Your home Wi-Fi network can be a vulnerability if not properly secured. Set a strong password for your Wi-Fi, and consider hiding your network’s SSID (Service Set Identifier) to make it less visible to potential hackers. Additionally, use WPA3 encryption, the latest Wi-Fi security protocol, to protect your network from unauthorized access.
Ensure your mobile banking apps are up-to-date to benefit from the latest security enhancements. Banking institutions frequently release updates to patch vulnerabilities and improve overall security. Set your apps to update automatically if possible. Additionally, only download apps from official app stores to avoid counterfeit versions. Regularly review app reviews and ratings to identify any potential issues reported by other users.
Cybercriminals often use social engineering tactics to manipulate individuals into divulging confidential information. Be cautious of unsolicited calls, emails, or messages asking for your banking details or other personal information. Legitimate institutions, including Citizens First Bank, will never request sensitive information via these channels. Stay informed about common social engineering techniques, such as pretexting and baiting, to recognize and avoid these scams effectively.
At Citizens First Bank, we encourage you to stay proactive, stay informed, and stay secure. Our commitment to your financial well-being means providing not only convenient online banking services but also ensuring your experience is safeguarded at every step. Stay vigilant, follow these tips, and enjoy a safer and more secure online banking journey.
Citizens First Bank – Member FDIC