Online banking is incredibly convenient, allowing you to access your accounts from your computer, tablet, or phone. However, with identity theft on the rise, good digital safety practices are more important than ever. Here are a few tips for protecting your banking information from unscrupulous thieves.

How to Safely Access Your Online Banking Account

1. Check Your Accounts Regularly

The sooner you detect fraudulent activity, the sooner you can take steps to minimize the damage. Check all of your accounts at least once a week to ensure you’ve authorized all of the charges and report any suspicious activity to your bank immediately.

2. Don’t Use Email Links

While some banks might occasionally send emails asking you to log into your account, it’s best not to click on any links. Hackers are very adept at making fake emails that look like they come from your financial institution, so open another browser and login from there to keep your information from falling into the wrong hands.

3. Choose Strong Passwords

Some passwords are so common that hackers have no problem getting in just by guessing. “Password” and “12345” are very weak passwords, but so is using your birthday, children’s names, or other readily available information. For maximum protection, choose a 12-digit password, using a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters and numbers.

4. Don’t Use Public Wi-Fi

Data thieves often use public, unsecured networks to steal reams of information, so you should only use online banking in secure locations. In general, it’s best to treat the network of every coffee shop, airport, or other public location with suspicion.

As the leading local financial institution in Cookeville, TN, Putnam 1st Mercantile Bank combines small-town service with the advanced tools you’d expect from a bigger bank. Residential and business clients alike enjoy cutting-edge online banking tools designed to make managing your finances easy, convenient, and safe. Visit their website now to learn more about their account options, or call (931) 528-6372 if you have any questions.