Online & Mobile Security
Do’s and don’ts for keeping information protected online.
Do
- Use strong passwords: at least eight characters with a mix of upper- and lower-case letters, numbers, special characters.
- Create hard-to-guess passwords (no birth dates, child’s name, pet’s name, or part of User ID).
- Change passwords frequently, and immediately if compromised.
- Notify financial institutions if passwords have been stolen.
Do NOT
- Share passwords or security devices.
- Post passwords in or around work areas.
- Use an automatic login feature that saves usernames and passwords.
Do
- Keep operating systems and web browsers up to date, and turn on automatic updates.
- Protect your home wireless network with a password for a secure connection.
- Use comprehensive spyware, virus protection software and a firewall, which prevents unauthorized users from gaining access.
- Ensure online retailers have secure technology: verify "https" and a tiny locked padlock symbol in the address bar.
Do NOT
- Send sensitive information over unsecure public Wi-Fi networks.
- Conduct banking transactions while multiple browsers are open.
Do
- Use the passcode lock on your smartphone and other devices.
- Be aware of your surroundings, especially when entering sensitive information.
- Completely log out when finishing a mobile banking session.
- Install mobile security software to protect against viruses and malicious software.
- Download updates to keep your phone and mobile apps safe with the newest release.
- Notify your financial institution if you change your phone number or lose your mobile device.
- Report suspected fraud immediately to your financial institution.
- Wipe your device before donating, trading or recycling; if it is lost or stolen, try to do so remotely.
Do NOT
- Open links and attachments in emails and texts, especially from senders you don’t know.
- Store sensitive information: passwords, Social Security number, etc.
- Perform banking transactions on a potentially unsecure public network; disable the Wi-Fi and use your mobile network.
- Click ads (not from your security provider) claiming your device is infected.
- Download all apps asking for unnecessary “permissions” – they may contain viruses or malware.
Do
- Be careful opening emails, links or attachments from unfamiliar sources: they could be an attempt to collect your confidential information or infect your device.
- Verify the authenticity of emails by using a phone number or address from your records rather than the contact information in or associated with the email.
- Watch for language that has an extreme sense of urgency if you do not act.
- Take note of logos that appear distorted, unfamiliar web addresses, unusual spelling or grammatical errors – all signs that a fraudster may have designed the email.
- Be wary of messages an automated email from a system saying your password is nearly expired, security alerts, or messages urging you to validate your online banking credentials.
- Forward phishing emails to the Federal Trade Commission at spam@uce.gov – and to the organization impersonated in the email.
Do NOT
- Click on links in emails – sign on to your trusted website directly, using the address from your records or your browser bookmark.
- Provide confidential information in response to an email request (user names, passwords, account numbers, tax ID numbers, Social Security numbers, etc.).
- Open attachments without independently verifying the authenticity of the email.
- Trust emails that appear to be from familiar sources – fraudsters can doctor email ‘from’ names or even addresses.
Report Fraud
Call Priority Service at 800.788.4578.
To Block a Debit or Credit Card
Call Priority Service at 800.788.4578 and follow the prompts to Card Services to block your card.
WTB Mobile: Suspend your card or report it lost or stolen from within the WTB Mobile app.
Fraud Prevention
Simple steps to help protect yourself from fraud. Read More