Landmark Bancorp Inc.

10/15/2024 | Press release | Archived content

How To Safely Bank Online

How To Safely Bank Online

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Online banking is a marvel of modern technology that allows you to effortlessly manage your money from anywhere. However, with great power comes great responsibility-you must exercise caution when utilizing online and mobile banking tools to protect your sensitive information.

Thankfully, Landmark National Bank knows a thing or two about secure online banking as an online bank for personaland business finances. Read on to learn about the principles of secure online mobile banking so you can enjoy peace of mind.

Is Online Banking Safe?

Whether or not online banks are safe is a common question because online banking didn't hit the mainstream until the 1990s. By the middle of the 2000s, it had taken over, followed by mobile banking services.

Online banking is safe, but only when the user acts responsibly and carefully. Banks invest heavily in cybersecurity to protect your money, but individual account holders play an even more critical role in preventing fraud. Simple actions like avoiding public Wi-Fi when banking and setting up account alerts can significantly reduce the risk of issues.

Good Online Bank Practices

While you never know when the risk of fraud will appear, there are some ways you can keep yourself preparedto avoid any problems, such as:

Set Strong Passwords

A strong password is your first line of defense from online banking scams. Avoid using easily guessable information like birthdays or common words, and instead come up with a combination of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters. Aim for at least 12 characters, and avoid reusing passwords from other accounts.

For added protection, enable two-factor authentication (2FA). This feature requires you to confirm your identity by entering a code sent to your phone or email whenever you log in, adding an extra layer of security. Even if your password gets stolen, having a 2FA setup provides an extra safety net.

How To Avoid Phishing and Other Scams

Phishing scams are a common tactic used to trick individuals into revealing sensitive information. These scams often arrive via emails or texts that seem like they're from legitimate institutions like banks, the government, or your employer urging you to click a link or provide your credentials. Here are some ways to avoid phishing scams:

  • Avoid clicking links in unexpected emails.
  • Be cautious opening any attachments or files.
  • Look for poor grammar or misspelled URLs-"bankl4ndmark.com," for example.
  • Never send your password, credit card number, Social Security number, or other sensitive info in an email.
  • Follow up with the supposed sender if you're not sure.

Monitor for Suspicious Activity

Regularly monitoring your bank account activity is essential for spotting signs of fraud early. Set up account alerts to receive notifications of account activity, such as large withdrawals or unusual purchases. These alerts can help you respond quickly to unauthorized activity and potentially prevent further fraud. Additionally, review your statements monthly to ensure all transactions are correct and report any discrepancies to your bank immediately.

Secure Online Mobile Banking Tips

Mobile bankingis convenient, but it's important that you use it carefully. You should only ever access your bank account(s) through your bank's mobile app, as third-party services can open the door to fraudulent activity. You should also take advantage of any security measures your bank offers, such as fingerprint or facial recognition to enter the app.

Never use online mobile banking services while on public Wi-Fi. All transactions should be handled at home or on company propertywhere only you can access your data. You can also use a virtual private network (VPN) to add another layer of security.

Bank Confidently With Landmark National Bank

Landmark National Bank is a financial provider you can trust. We pride ourselves on delivering secure and trustworthy financial services for personal accountsand business accountsand providing helpful tips and insights about safely using online and mobile banking on our blog.

When you're ready to confidently use online and mobile banking, contact Landmark National Bankor find a bank branch location near youto open up an account today.