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- Be cautious when accessing ANY personal information through
the internet. Use only secure websites that you trust to
view accounts online. Today's technology enables hackers
to replicate any website and fool you into thinking it's
the real thing. This is called Phishing. It can cost you
a lot of time and money so be careful. Never click
on a link in an email that asks you to give your
personal information. It's very easy to make this look legitimate.
Instead, type the trusted website directly into your browser.
If you suspect something is wrong, you're probably right!
- Keep your computer operating system up to date. If your computer is
more than five years old, its operating system may
not offer the same level of protection as newer systems. System manufacturers
provide frequent updates to help make your system more secure.
Some manufacturers supply updates automatically through email or via your
Internet connection.
- Use a current Web browser. To provide our customers
with the most secure online access to their accounts, Wainwright
Bank continually upgrades our online services. In certain
cases, the software you use to connect to the Internet (i.e.
your Web browser) may eventually become unsuitable for sensitive
transactions such as Internet banking. In this event, we
will notify customers.
- Install a personal firewall. Though most office networks include firewall protection, your home computer may benefit from this added level of security. Check to see if your operating system already includes a firewall prior to purchasing a separate one.
- Install and update anti-virus software. Commercially available virus protection software helps reduce the risk of contracting computer viruses that can compromise your security. These programs offer continuous upgrades in response to the latest threats.
- Activate a pop-up blocker. Several free, publicly available programs exist that will block all pop-up windows from occurring while you are online. Perform an Internet search for "pop-up blocker" or look at the options provided by major search engines. You should confirm that these programs are from legitimate companies before downloading. Once you have installed a pop-up blocker, you should determine if it blocks information that you need to view or access. If this is the case, you should consider turning off the blocker when you are on Web sites you know use pop-windows to provide information you need or want to view.
- Scan your computer for spyware regularly. You can eliminate potentially risky pop-up windows by removing any spyware or adware installed on your computer. Spyware and adware are programs that look in on your Web viewing activity and potentially relay information to a disreputable source. Perform an Internet search for "spyware" or "adware" to find free spyware removal programs. You should confirm that these programs are from legitimate companies before downloading. As with a pop-up blocker, you will want to be sure that your removal program is not blocking, or removing, wanted items, and if it is, consider turning it off on some Web sites.
- Use secure Web sites for transactions and shopping. Be sure the Web page you are viewing offers encryption of your data. Often you will see a lock symbol in the lower right-hand corner of your browser window, or the Web address of the page you are viewing will begin with "https://...". The "s" indicates "secured" and
means the Web page uses encryption.
- Avoid downloading programs from unknown sources. Downloads from unfamiliar sources may contain hidden programs or viruses that can compromise your computer's security.
- Disconnect from the Internet when not in use. Dedicated services such as DSL or high-speed cable provide a constant connection between your computer and the Internet. When not in use, disconnect from the Internet to avoid unwanted access to the information on your computer. Even if you have a firewall installed, this is an additional step you can take to help protect yourself.
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