Whether you’re paying bills or making transfers between accounts, online banking offers real-time convenience and speed. To ensure your transactions are safe and secure, there are several do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when logging on. Here are several to follow.

Do:

Change your passwords.

Get in the habit of changing your passwords regularly. Doing so will reduce the chances of hackers accessing your online banking account. Come up with a new password at least once every three months to prevent thieves from repeated returns.

Check your balances periodically.

Pay special attention to any suspicious activities in your online banking account. This includes transactions not made by you and purchases from out of state. If something looks unusual, contact your bank right away, so they can freeze the account. The bank will investigate to find out who made the fraudulent transactions.

Don’t:

Give your card number or PIN to anyone.

Unless you initiated the transaction, never give your debit or credit card number or PIN to anyone. Once they have these pieces of information, criminals can go on a shopping spree and drain your bank account. If some entity is asking you for your account numbers or PIN through an email message, it is a scam. Do not provide the numbers, and delete the email.

Let someone have remote access to your computer.

This request allows hackers to install malware and ransomware on your computer, which provides access to all of your bank accounts, passwords, and other personal information. Be especially suspicious of someone who contacts you first seeking remote access. They’re likely setting you up to conduct fraudulent activities.

By following a few security steps, you can protect your online banking accounts from criminals. First & Peoples Bank and Trust Company in Russell, KY, uses encryption software for its NetBanker online banking program. Pay your bills, transfer funds, and check balances conveniently online without worrying about security. The community bank has served the area since 1925 by providing all of the products and services for your unique lifestyle. For your convenience, there are six branches located in Greenup County: there are two in Russell, and Ashland, Flatwoods, Greenup, and South Shore each have one location. Visit the website for more information on NetBanker. If you have questions, call (606) 836-0211.