When it comes to online security, there is no such thing as doing too much or being too cautious. Here are some basic tips and practices to keep you and your money safe.
Security settings: Most devices and apps have security settings that you can change. Using fingerprints and facial recognition features ensure that you are the user trying to gain access and you won’t have to worry about someone seeing your password over your shoulder. Note: that you may also have to grant this same access to each app that offers this sign-on method, or you may have to turn it on separately.
In our online banking app, browse to Profile & Settings>> Security Preferences to enable Face/Touch ID.
Multifactor authentication and secure tokens: Multifactor authentication and tokens are a service that you have to turn on for participating sites and apps. Once registered, the system you’re trying to access will send a code to the email address or phone number on file. Doing so, allows you to confirm you are the person trying to get in, even if you access it from a different location.
You are automatically enrolled in this feature when you use our online banking.
Don’t share passwords: It may seem like it’s not a big deal but you don’t always know who you can trust. Just because you are vigilant about your safety doesn’t mean that everyone else will be too. We don’t even recommend using the feature to “remember this password” on sites because if you pick up a virus, it could collect that information from your computer.
Set up individual login IDs: The same is true for usernames. If you share an account with another person, it is always best to have them create their own login. If they log in as you or experience a breach on their device, it may look as though you were the authorizing account. Sharing credentials, whether it’s a username or password, can also void some protection plans.
Sign up for alerts in online banking: In our app, you can set alerts for threshold balances, transactions or login activity, and more. Setting up alerts for all of your payment systems will keep you in the loop about your account even when you aren’t looking at it. This will allow you to report anything suspicious immediately.
In our online banking app, browse to Profile & Settings>> Text Alerts and/or Email & Phone Alerts.
Sign up for ID Theft protection:Theft recovery services are available to all personal checking account holders at no cost, even if the fraud isn’t related to our account. We also offer additional levels of service that you can purchase for greater coverage and proactive monitoring. Should you ever suspect that you are a victim of ID Theft, please contact your branch right away.
Antivirus & patching: We prefer you to subscribe to a full-service antivirus program that you pay for so you'll receive the most protection available. At a minimum, you should have a free antivirus program, such as AVG installed on your computer. We also recommend installing Windows Defender (for a PC only) and Malware Bytes (both free programs) as they specifically help with Trojans, ransomware, and other malicious programs.
Whatever software you choose, stay up-to-date on patches from your security programs, apps, and device manufacturers.
Don’t use public Wi-Fi: Public internet access may seem harmless and make things easy for you to connect but it is like an open back door for fraudsters to your device. Once inside, they can gain access to, and capture, your sensitive data, like those stored passwords (mentioned in #3). If you must use public Wi-Fi, don’t log in to any secure sites, like your online banking or payments apps, while you’re connected.
Report suspicious activity ASAP: If you see a charge on your account, get a questionable email, or any other activity that makes you cautious, report it immediately. If it’s regarding your Chesapeake Bank account, you can contact your favorite branch. If it’s regarding another account or service, you will want to contact the numbers you know and trust to verify it or report it.
Like the game of football, you are the first line of defense. If something seems “too be good to be true,” it most likely is. If something seems fishy, that hunch is also likely right. Listen to your gut. Never give your personal information away without making 100% sure you know who you’re giving it to. Call us if you have questions 877-436-9032.
