Mobile Banking Safety Tips

Managing your finances using a smartphone or tablet can be very convenient. However, you should consider these safety tips to protect your account information:

  • Be proactive in protecting your smartphone and/or tablet by installing anti-malware software on the device. Research any application (app) before you download it. Fraudulent apps are often designed with names that look like real apps. It’s best if you access an app using a link from the provider’s website.
  • Create a strong password or PIN for your mobile app and your device.
    • Use at least eight characters
    • Do not use your username, real name, or company name
    • Do not use a complete word
    • Make it significantly different from previous passwords
    • Use a character from each of the following categories (some apps may limit symbols)
      • Uppercase letters
      • Lowercase letters
      • Numbers
  • Use an auto-lock or time-out feature so your device will lock when it is left unused for a certain period of time.
  • Upgrade your device to the latest operating system version.
  • Do not jailbreak or root your mobile device. Doing so exposes the security controls and makes your device vulnerable to cyber-attacks.
  • Check your account history periodically to make sure there are no fraudulent transactions.
  • Take precautions in case your device is lost or stolen, before your device is lost or stolen. Avoid leaving your device unattended in public places.
  • Consult your wireless provider to see if they provide a service to remotely erase your device or turn off access to your device and/or account in the event your device is lost or stolen.
  • Always conduct your transactions in a safe environment. Use your cellular service or your own internet provider rather than unsecured/public Wi-Fi networks like those offered at coffee shops.
  • Don’t send account numbers or PIN in emails or text messages, because those methods are not necessarily secure

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