How to Protect Yourself from Online Fraud
The increased sophistication and rapid growth of online fraud continues to be a challenge. These scams appear in many forms, especially fraudulent emails and Web site, spyware and viruses, and pop-up advertisements.
Fraudulent Emails & Websites
This particular type of fraud occurs when someone poses as a legitimate company to obtain personal data, such as account numbers, and then makes transactions with this information illegally. A common form of this scam is called “phishing”. Phishing refers to cyber-criminals who attempt to gather sensitive personal information from consumers through emails and/or through imitations of legitimate Web sites. To combat phishing, please remember that Old Line Bank will never ask for sensitive information from you via e-mail (ex. Social security number, Username, password or account number, or ATM/debit card number and PIN).
Spyware & Viruses
Spyware and viruses are destructive programs loaded on your computer without your permission or knowledge. Spyware appears as a legitimate application on your computer but actually monitors your activity and collects sensitive information. Viruses are harmful programs spread through the Internet that can compromise the security of your computer. Maintaining up-to-date anti-spyware and virus protection software and firewalls help avoid these risks.
Pop-ups appear in a separate browser window and, when clicked, can download harmful spyware or adware to your computer. While some make legitimate offers, many pop-ups are attempts to obtain your sensitive information. Old Line Bank will never ask you to verify personal financial information in pop-up advertisement.
Helpful Tips to Protect You
While online banking is safe, as a general rule you should always be careful about giving out your personal financial information over the Internet. Review the following tips to protect your personal information while using the Internet.
We take numerous steps to keep your account information secure. However, you must take precautions as well.
Choose a good password - Your online password, along with your Username, authenticate your identity when accessing online accounts. You should carefully select a password that is difficult to guess and not use personal information or a word that can be found in the dictionary.
Keep your password safe - Even the best password is worthless if it’s written on a note attached to your computer or kept in your checkbook. Memorize your password and never tell it to anyone.
Change your password regularly - It’s important to change your password regularly.
Remember to log off properly - You may not always be at your own computer when banking online. Therefore, it’s important to log off using the “log off” link at the top of each Internet banking page.