Technology Keeps You Safe and Keeps You At Risk

Internet crooks have gotten sophisticated in various methods used to access and steal consumers identity. A few of the sophisticated ones are “phishing”, “DNSpoisoning”, “screen grabbing” and “key-logging”.  Believe it or not, they use malware software such as Zeus and Sinowal that actually intrude (undetected) in your computer, to steal your identity. The good news is that new computer protection software can now detect such malicious attacks and remove or block their access entirely. Ensure that your computer’s anti-virus definition software is up to date.
 

One of the avenues that these fraudsters concentrate their efforts to perpetrate their cybercrime is through online banking. Online banking for the most part can be safe and secure especially when strong precaution and good practices are used in all banking activities.To stay safe while conducting banking activities online, it will be very beneficial to apply these effective measures listed below:
 
• Password Protection –
Only you should know and keep your password. Never give or share your password with anyone or any entity. No legitimate company will ask you for your password over the phone at any time.
 
• Multiple Passwords Use –
Avoid using the same password for all of your online accounts and activities. This is useful because if one of your passwords is compromised then only that account will be affected.
 
• Periodic Password Updates   –
It will be wise to change your password changed every 90 days.
 
• Unsolicited email requests demanding account update   –
Never follow any link that comes to your email and asks you to click on it and update your account etc. This is prime “phishing”. Once you click on it, they can use a malware to invade your computer and steal your identity.
 
• Regular Account Activity Audit –
Develop the habit of checking your account activity history at least once every month. If you notice any unauthorized debits, report it immediately to your bank.
 
• Protect Your Computer …To The Max  –
The best way to ensure that your computer is fully protected is to be sure to install the best and up-to-date anti-virus definition software. Norton and McAfee are among the best.
 
• Always “Sign Out” from Computer Terminals  –
Make sure that you always “log out” completely, this is especially critical if you happen to use a public computer terminal such as at the Library or anywhere else. Develop the habit of completely signing out or logging out of your account and from the Bank’s website, once you have completed your transaction.
 
• Identity Theft Protection Service  –
If you are one of those that can afford to engage the services of Identity Protection Companies (such as Life-lock), some people have had good experiences with them. Be sure to shop around and pick the best company that will do the best job for you and is most cost effective to your budget.
 
You can never have too much protection when it comes to doing business online. Following these measures will definitely increase your chances of being safe and protected while conducting your banking business online.  It can prevent losing money and save you a lot of effort trying to restore your good credit and your reputation in the personal finance world.