When it comes to protecting your money, you don’t need complicated tools or technical expertise. The most effective defense against online banking fraud often comes down to simple, consistent habits.
With fraud attempts continuing to rise, building strong, everyday routines can make all the difference in keeping your financial information secure.
1. Check Your Accounts Regularly
One of the easiest ways to catch fraud early is simply staying aware of your activity.
Even a quick daily or weekly check can help you spot unfamiliar charges before they become a bigger issue.
I caught a small charge I didn’t recognize just by checking my account during lunch. It turned out to be fraud, and my bank handled it immediately. - Linda L.
2. Turn On Account Alerts
Account alerts act as your personal early warning system. Set up notifications for:
- Purchases
- Login attempts
- Password changes
- Low balances
These alerts help you react quickly if something doesn’t look right.
The customers who have alerts turned on are almost always the first to catch suspicious activity—and that makes a huge difference in resolving it quickly. -Hilary P. Chief Experience Officer
3. Use Strong, Unique Passwords
Passwords are your first line of defense. Avoid reusing the same password across multiple accounts, especially for financial access.
Best practices include:
- Using a mix of uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and symbols
- Avoiding easily guessed information like birthdays
- Updating passwords regularly
4. Keep Your Devices Updated
Software updates aren’t just about new features—they often fix security vulnerabilities that fraudsters look to exploit.
Make it a habit to:
- Update your phone and computer regularly
- Keep your banking app current
- Install security patches when prompted
5. Be Cautious on Public Wi-Fi
Public Wi-Fi networks can expose your personal information if not secured properly.
If you need to access your accounts:
- Use your bank’s mobile app instead of a browser
- Avoid logging into sensitive accounts on shared networks
- Consider using a secure connection or VPN
6. Protect Your Personal Information
Fraudsters often gather small details over time—especially from social media—to guess passwords or answer security questions.
Be mindful of:
- What you share publicly
- Requests for personal or financial information
- Messages that seem overly urgent or unusual
We’re seeing more cases where fraud starts with information people didn’t realize they were sharing publicly. It doesn’t take much for someone to piece things together. -Genny E. Fraud Manager
7. Keep Your Contact Information Current
Your bank relies on your contact information to protect you.
Having an up-to-date phone number and email ensures you can:
- Receive real-time fraud alerts
- Verify suspicious transactions
- Avoid delays if action is needed
I didn’t realize my email was outdated until I missed an alert. Updating my info was a simple fix that gave me peace of mind. - Judy N.
When in Doubt, Ask
If something feels off—whether it’s a call, text, email, or transaction—pause and verify.
We would always rather you call and double-check than take a risk. That’s what we’re here for. -Chrissy M. Customer Service Manager
Reaching out directly to your bank using a trusted phone number is always the safest next step.
Closing Thought
Fraud prevention doesn’t require perfection—it requires awareness.
By building these safe online banking habits into your routine, you’re taking meaningful steps toward protecting your bank account, your identity, and your financial future.
Small actions, done consistently, can make a powerful impact.