The security of your personal information should be a top priority when you conduct banking business online. You should always exercise caution when making purchases, filling out applications and paying bills. After you log in to your banking site, make sure to do a quick visual check of the web page for security indicators. Here are some ways you can easily identify if your banking site is not secure:

1. No “S” in the Address Bar
Look for an "https" in your web browser's address bar. A simple "http" is the mark of an unsecure page. The added “s” means that a secure, encrypted connection has been established and any reputable banking site will offer this security measure. Never enter data into your web browser without the “s” after you’ve logged in.

2. There is no Padlock or Key Symbol
Look for a padlock or an unbroken key symbol in the corner of you web browser (usually in the bottom right or upper right corner). This indicates a secure page that has enabled encryption mechanisms for online safety. Basically, it’s as if you went in a room and locked the door behind you. This technology scrambles your information so that no one lurking behind you on the Internet can steal your private data. If the key is broken or the padlock is unlocked, then your page is not secure and your information could be vulnerable to interception

3. You Found the Web Site Through an Email Link
Many times, hackers and spambots will target your email inbox as a way to lure you to “shadow” web sites that look just like your bank’s site. In the spam mail, you will be asked to “click on a link” to access your account or you will be asked to enter your password and username to “verify” your account. BEWARE: Your bank will NEVER ask you for your password, username or any other private data through email. Even if you use an online-only bank, you should only have to enter this information as you attempt to log onto a trusted site.

4. There is No Privacy Statement
Every banking web site offers customers a privacy statement that guarantees the safety of your personal information while conducting online banking. This statement will include details on how the bank will secure your data as well as outline a disclosure regarding the release of information to third parties.

5. You Are Not Logged Out for Inactivity
Online banking sites use cookies to time your web browsing sessions. If you have more than 10 minutes of inactivity, a trusted site will log you out and require that you sign in again. If this doesn’t happen, your information could be at risk, particularly if you’re using a public computer. You can check your credit report often to find out if you’ve been the victim of identity theft.

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