Security

Mobile Device Security

• Configure your device to require a passcode to gain access if this feature is supported in your device.
• Avoid storing sensitive information. Mobile devices have a high likelihood of being lost or stolen so you should avoid using them to store sensitive information (e.g., passwords, account numbers, etc.). If sensitive data is stored, enable encryption to secure it.
• Keep your mobile device's software up to date. These devices are small computers running software that needs to be updated just as you would update your PC. Use the automatic update option if one is available.
• Review the privacy policy and data access of any applications (apps) before installing them. Only download apps from trusted app stores (Apple, Google Play).
• Disable features not actively in use such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and infrared. Set Bluetooth-enabled devices to non-discoverable when Bluetooth is enabled.
• Delete all information stored on a device before the device changes ownership. Use a "hard factory reset" to permanently erase all content and settings stored on the device.
• "Sign out" or "Log off" when finished with an app rather than just closing it.
• Utilize antivirus software where applicable (i.e., Android, Windows, etc.).
• Do not jailbreak or otherwise circumvent security controls.

Mobile Applications

• Download and install mobile applications only from trusted sources authorized by the device manufacturer, such as Apple’s App Store, Google Play, or the Windows Store.
• Enable mobile device features to block mobile application downloads from unknown sources.
• When available, require a passcode to download mobile applications to prevent unauthorized installation.
• Protect yourself from fraudulent mobile applications by watching for these signs:
  
  • Typos, poor image quality, or formatting issues.
  • Low number of downloads.
  • Negative user reviews.
• Additionally, review other mobile applications created by the app developer to validate the application’s legitimacy.
• If possible, create a passcode on any mobile application you install that may have access to your personal information.
• When finished with a mobile application, always “Sign Out” or “Log Off” rather than just closing it.

Online Security

• Never click on suspicious links in emails, tweets, posts, or online advertising. Links can take you to a different website than their labels indicate. Typing an address in your browser instead of clicking a link in an email is a safer alternative.
• Only submit sensitive information to websites using encryption to ensure your information is protected as it travels across the Internet. Verify the web address begins with "https://" (the "s" is for secure) rather than just "http://". Some browsers also display a closed padlock.
• Do not trust sites with certificate warnings or errors. These messages could be caused by your connection being intercepted or the web server misrepresenting its identity.
• Avoid using public computers or public wireless access points for online banking and other activities involving sensitive information when possible.
• Always "sign out" or "log off" of password protected websites when finished to prevent unauthorized access. Simply closing the browser window may not actually end your session.
• Be cautious of unsolicited phone calls, emails, or texts directing you to a website or requesting information.

General PC Security

• Maintain active and up-to-date antivirus protection provided by a reputable vendor. Schedule regular scans of your computer in addition to real-time scanning.
• Update your software frequently to ensure you have the latest security patches. This includes your computer's operating system and other installed software (e.g., web browsers, Adobe Flash Player, Adobe Reader, Java, Microsoft Office, etc.).
• Automate software updates, when the software supports it, to ensure it is not overlooked.
• If you suspect your computer is infected with malware, discontinue using it for banking, shopping, or other activities involving sensitive information. Use security software and/or professional help to find and remove malware.
• Use firewalls on your local network to add another layer of protection for all the devices that connect through the firewall (e.g., PCs, smart phones, and tablets).
• Require a password to gain access. Log off or lock your computer when not in use.
• Use a cable lock to physically secure laptops when the device is stored in an untrusted location.

Passwords

• Create a unique password for all the different systems/websites you use. Otherwise, one breach leaves all your accounts vulnerable.
• Never share your password over the phone, in texts, by email, or in person. If you are asked for your password it is probably a scam.
• Use unpredictable passwords with a combination of lowercase letters, capital letters, numbers, and special characters.
• The longer the password, the tougher it is to crack. Use a password with at least 8 characters. Every additional character exponentially strengthens a password. Passphrases are most effective. A passphrase is a short sentence and generally easier to remember.
• Avoid using obvious passwords such as:
  
  • Names (your name, family member names, business name, username, etc.)
  • Dates (birthdays, anniversaries, etc.)
  • Dictionary words
• Choose a password you can remember without writing it down. If you do choose to write it down, store it in a secure location.

Social Engineering

In a social engineering attack, an attacker uses human interaction to manipulate a person into providing them information. People have a natural tendency to trust. Social engineering attacks attempt to exploit this tendency to steal your information. Once the information has been stolen it can be used to commit fraud or identity theft.

Criminals use a variety of social engineering attacks to attempt to steal information, including:

1. Website Spoofing
2. Phishing

The following sections explain the meaning of these common attacks and provide tips you can use to avoid being a victim.

Website Spoofing

Website spoofing is the act of creating a fake website to mislead individuals into sharing sensitive information. Spoofed websites are typically created to look exactly like a legitimate website published by a trusted organization.

Phishing

Phishing is when an attacker attempts to acquire information by masquerading as a trustworthy entity in an electronic communication. Phishing messages often direct the recipient to a spoof website. Phishing attacks are typically carried out through email, instant messaging, telephone calls, social media, and text messages (SMS).

Be On Alert

People are trying to steal your personal information. Remember to be on alert for the following types of threats to your mobile financial services.

Social Engineering

Phishing is a social engineering tactic used to obtain personal information by masquerading as a trustworthy individual through electronic communications. Some specific types of phishing include spoofing, SMiShing, and vishing.

Unsecured Wireless Networks

If you can access an Internet network without entering a password or network key, unauthorized individuals are also able to do so. If you are on an unsecured wireless network, such as a mobile or Wi-Fi hotspot, do not use your mobile device to transmit sensitive data.

Compromised Websites

Watch for potentially compromised websites. If the website has a security error or your browser gives you a warning about the site, use caution. If you go to one web address and are redirected to another, close your mobile device’s browser immediately and remember: When in doubt, do not click.

Additional Resources

Consumer CybersecurityCybersecurity for Business