Tips for Safe and Secure
Mobile Banking

Check out these important tips for staying safe and secure while using TOPCU Mobile Banking.

Don't access your online accounts on public Wi-Fi
Reason:

When you’re on public Wi-Fi, hackers can more easily access your computer and steal personal information from it. You should never access your financial institution’s website through a computer, tablet, or mobile phone unless you’re on a secure Wi-Fi network with a password or using your own cell phone data connection. This is much more difficult for thieves to hack, so it keeps your information safer.

Avoid saving your login information on devices you do not use regularly

Reason:

Some websites give you the option to save your login information for future use, but if someone uses your computer or mobile device after you, they could gain access to your online accounts. To at least help prevent this from happening, now many home banking sites time out after a certain number of minutes of inactivity, and do not save your informations.

Use strong passwords and change them often

Reason:

Strong passwords have a mix of upper- and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Many financial institutions now require your online accounts to carry a password meeting these requirements. You should also change your password at least once a year and use different passwords for all of your online accounts so that hackers will have a more difficult time gaining access to your information.

Use two-factor authentication whenever possible

Reason:
Two-factor authentication is the next level of security that many financial institutions are now offering. Usually, a text or email is sent with a code or a series of questions are asked when you log in, reset your password, or change devices. This creates an extra layer of security in case the users home banking or mobile banking password gets compromised.

Keep your computer updated

Reason:
Outdated computers and mobile devices may not be secure enough to protect your personal and financial data against the latest computer viruses. If your computer gets infected with a virus, a hacker could gain access to your accounts without you knowing it until your money is gone. Always perform your computer’s recommended updates as soon as they become available and install antivirus software on your computer.

Always type your financial institution’s web address into your browser yourself

Reason:
Some hackers send out “phishing” emails that appear to be from your financial institution. They’re hoping you’ll enter your login information at their fake version of the bank’s site. Never click on links in emails that appear to be from your bank, even if they look legitimate. Instead, type the financial institution’s web address into the URL bar yourself, or use a search engine to find the correct web page. You can bookmark the right page for later use.

Monitor your account regularly

Reason:
Following the above precautions should, hopefully, keep others out of your online account. The only way to make absolutely sure is to check your account balances and transaction history regularly, and make sure your money isn’t going anywhere it isn’t supposed to. If you notice suspicious activity, change your account password, and contact your financial institution immediately.

Downloading apps

Smartphones and tablets are very useful devices. App stores make them even more useful by providing a convenient method to install apps of all kinds to do many useful things. Sometimes, unfortunately, apps are made available that spy on you as you use your device. It is important to read the reviews for the app — more reviews (with good ratings) are better and some app stores are more trustworthy than others.

Also, be aware of what you’re allowing an app you’ve downloaded to access on your device. For example, a flashlight app shouldn’t need access to all of your contacts to work. When in doubt, removing a questionable app — or not downloading it in the first place — is always the safest option.

Jailbreaking/rooting

Jailbreaking (iOS) and/or rooting (Android) a device is a process by which a flaw in your smartphone or tablet’s basic software is exploited, permitting the user to change the behavior of the device. Jailbreaking and rooting can void your warranty, nullify support with the device manufacturer and sometimes introduce security issues that put you at risk. We do not recommend installing the TOPCU Mobile app or accessing a TOPCU mobile-friendly site from a device modified in this manner unless you are certain the device is safe to use for banking purposes.

Encryption

Most smartphones and tablets sold today provide encryption and password-locking capabilities. We recommend you use them, especially when you have chosen to store your login credentials on any mobile apps including online banking, social media and shopping. Without this protection, your device may provide a thief with the access necessary to make fraudulent transfers and purchases.

Mobile Malware

Mobile malware is malicious software that is installed on your device with the intent to steal your personal information or financial details. One of the main ways that the malware can access your phone is through Wi-Fi networks and Bluetooth. Only use secure and trusted Wi-Fi networks and keep Bluetooth switched off when you aren’t using it. If your device supports security and anti-virus software, consider installing that software. Back up the device’s data and keep the copy in a safe and secure location.

ONLINE SECURITY

  • Keep your devices and their operating systems up-to-date by regularly installing updates.
  • Avoid accessing sensitive information on unsecured wireless networks. And turn off Bluetooth when not in use.
  • Enable the remote wipe feature on your mobile device in case it is lost or stolen.
  • Finally, if you are looking to get rid of a mobile device, be sure to remove all personal information with a factory reset.

PASSWORDS TIPS

  • TOPCU will never ask for your Online/ Mobile Banking password.
  • Change your password regularly.
  • Password protect your mobile device and lock it when it’s not in use.
  • Do not tell your password to others under any circumstances.

MONITOR ACTIVITY

Monitor your financial records and accounts on a regular basis. Use electronic account alerts to notify you of activity. Regularly review your statements with online banking to spot any suspicious activity.

If you have any doubts, please contact TOPCU.

Find suspicious activity? Let us know