Protect Your Digital Banking Experience

As Cybersecurity Awareness Month unfolds this October, it’s the perfect time to focus on safeguarding your online activities, particularly when it comes to digital banking. With the growing reliance on online services, ensuring your financial data remains secure is more important than ever. Here are some essential tips to help you protect your banking experience:

Sign Up for Digital Banking and Monitor Your Accounts Regularly. Keeping an eye on your account activity is critical to spotting fraud early. Sign up for online and mobile banking for added security:

• Stay in control: Monitor your account anytime to prevent fraudsters from accessing or creating an account in your name.
• Set up alerts: Get transaction notifications and review any unusual activity.
• Check your transactions: Use our mobile app to check transactions frequently and review statements monthly.

Strengthen Your Password Security. Your password is your first defense. Keep it strong and secure:

• Use a complex password: Combine letters, numbers, and special characters.
• Avoid common phrases: Don’t use easily guessed information like birthdays or names.
• Update regularly: Change your password every few months.

Never Share Your Password. Protect your password at all times:

• Keep it private: Don’t share your password via email, text, or phone with anyone, including family and friends.
• Watch out for scams: Never provide your password in response to unsolicited requests.

Use Secure Networks. Ensure a secure connection when banking online:

• Avoid public Wi-Fi: It’s more vulnerable to hackers.
• Use a VPN: Encrypt your connection if using public Wi-Fi.

Keep Your Devices Secure. Secure devices are critical to safe digital banking:

• Update your software: Regularly install updates for security patches.
• Install antivirus: Protect against malware and other threats.

Be Cautious of Phishing Attacks. Phishing is a common tactic for stealing information, especially requests and alerts related to banking or payment information:

• Avoid suspicious links: Don’t click on unfamiliar emails or messages.
• Verify requests: Contact your local Bank First branch directly if something seems off.

Log Out After Each Session. Always log out of online banking when finished:

• Log out fully: Don’t just close the window.
• Clear your history: Regularly clear your browser history, especially on shared computers.

Stay Vigilant and Stay Safe

Cybersecurity is a shared responsibility. Following these tips can help protect your digital banking experience and ensure your financial information remains secure. If you ever have concerns about your online banking security, don’t hesitate to contact your local Bank First branch for assistance. Let’s make this Cybersecurity Month a time to enhance online safety and enjoy peace of mind with your digital banking activities.