Protect your computer
At Oregon Coast Bank, we take every precaution to secure your valuable financial information—but only you can control what happens on your computer. Make the following tips habits to keep yourself safe.
Keep your software up to date
One of the most common vulnerabilities exploited by hackers is out-of-date software. Keep your operating system, browser, and security software up to date. If an application has an option for automatic updates, turn it on so that new security features are automatically downloaded.
Be careful with connected devices
If you plug any other devices into your computer, make sure you run your antivirus software on them to ensure no malware or viruses are present.
Secure every device
These days, you’re likely to have many devices in your home that connect to the internet. Be sure your smartphones, gaming systems, and other home electronics are protected from malware and unauthorized access too.
Safeguard your information
Your personal and financial information is among your most precious possessions. The little bit of effort needed to shield it from prying eyes is worth it!
Passwords are powerful
Strong passwords are your first line of defense. Create a unique and strong password for every site you log into—with both capital and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
It’s hard to come up with lots of unique passwords, and even harder to remember them! To make good password habits easier, use a secure password manager that keeps all your passwords in one place. And most password managers can also generate complex, hard-to-guess passwords for you—which you won’t need to memorize since you’re using a password manager!
Use two-factor authentication whenever possible
Many websites and applications now offer two-factor authentication as added protection—they send an access code via text or email each time you log in. This extra step takes only a few seconds and is one of the best ways to guard against unauthorized access to your accounts.
Beware phony email links
Always exercise caution before opening links in an email, even when it looks like someone you know sent it. If anything about a message seems a little off, send a separate email asking the sender to confirm that they actually sent the email in question. And if you get any email from a government agency—don’t click the links! Instead, open your browser and go directly to the agency’s website. If the email is legitimate, you should be able to access the relevant information there.
Connect with care
The trade-off for the convenience of connectivity is potential vulnerabilities in your online security. Know the risks and take action to keep your information safe.
Guard your home front
If you have a home wi-fi network, set up a unique password for it. Don’t use the default password that came with your router! Keep in mind that if you have “smart” devices that connect to the internet—TVs, appliances, security cameras, even robot vacuums!—they’re also potentially connected to your computer. Check the instruction manual to find out what information these devices are using and how best to protect them from data vulnerabilities.
Be smart when out and about
If you’re like most people with a laptop, you use public wi-fi networks, whether in a coffee shop, at an airport, or on a job site. When you do, keep in mind that it may be possible for someone to log onto the network and see the data you’re sending. That’s why you should avoid sending or receiving any sensitive information—like passwords or social security numbers—when you’re on public wi-fi.
Stay security-savvy when browsing
Clicking around mindlessly online can lead you to sites that compromise your computer’s security. Any time you’re entering sensitive information into a site—like when you’re buying something online—check that the web address begins with https:// —the “s” is a sign the site is secure. And take a moment to think before clicking links on social media, especially if they’re shortened links (like bit.ly URLs) that mask the destination.
Need help? We’re here for you
If you have questions about your account’s security—or need advice on any banking issues—we’re eager to help. Give us a call, send an email, or come by any branch for a smiling face and the support you need.