Many Needham Bank customers prefer to take care of routine banking needs through online banking. From checking account balances to depositing checks, online banking provides round-the-clock access to everyday banking needs.
And, for younger generations like Millennials and members of Generation Z, online banking is expected and often the only way to go. In fact, a fifth of all Millennials have reported never having written a physical check to pay a bill.
As more and more customers turn to online banking, it’s important to understand online banking security. At Needham Bank, we take this topic very seriously. Below are six online banking security best practices to help keep your banking information as safe as possible.
Be password savvy
We can’t emphasize enough how important it is to create a strong password. This may seem like an inconvenience, especially with so many passwords to remember. Fortunately, encryption services like 1password and Last Pass will help you create strong passwords and keep them secure. Also remember to always log out when your banking session is finished to ensure no one can accidentally gain access if your computer or phone is misplaced.
Know your Wi-Fi
Public Wi-Fi has become increasingly available. From your local coffeehouse to the airport, you can connect to the internet virtually anywhere. However, you should never fully trust public Wi-Fi for sensitive information like banking. Your private and secured home Wi-Fi is usually the safest option, but if you have to access online banking remotely, try using a Virtual Private Network to get to a secure connection.
Never click on unknown links
Another rule of thumb is to only use branded Needham Bank points of entry to access your online banking. This may seem self-explanatory, but sometimes fraudulent attempts can make a page look official in an effort to access your information. Known as phishing, this tactic is commonly used in email and text scams.
If you have any doubt about authenticity, the safe bet is to type needhambank.com into your web browser or navigate directly to the Needham Bank mobile app. Access the iPhone or Android version via the Apple Store or Google Play depending on your smartphone.
Confirm HTTPS for security
Another tip to ensure your information is secure is to look at the beginning of the web address in your browser. All pages on our website start with HTTPS. That “S” at the end indicates the site is following base-level encryption technology and your information is secure.
Create banking notifications
Use Online and Mobile Banking to their fullest potential. You can create custom alerts to monitor your account and receive notifications if things don’t seem quite right. Also, be sure to enable touch ID or biometric login for added security when logging in.
Even with all these precautions and when being as diligent as possible, online banking fraud can sometimes occur. If you have questions or concerns about your account, do not hesitate to reach out as soon as possible. Contact us immediately if you suspect fraud or have any questions about the security of your Needham Bank account or information.
