Online Banking Security

ONLINE BANKING SECURITY

Online banking is a convenient way to access or transact against your account. It is your responsibility to take the appropriate precautions to protect your own data, including information that can be used to access or transact against your account. We’ve listed some tips below:

Note: If you have enrolled in Digital Banking, please also refer to the NASA Federal Credit Union Digital Banking Services Agreement for more specific information about your responsibilities for using the service.

Computer Security

• For any computer you use for online banking, shopping or similar activities:
  • Maintain active, up-to-date antivirus, anti-spyware and firewall protection.
  • Install operating system and software updates (i.e. “patches”, “service packs”) as soon as possible.
  • Avoid these types of transactions at wireless hotspots or internet cafés.
• Use strong passwords that contain:
  • alpha/number characters and symbols
  • upper and lower case characters
  • minimum of 8 characters but longer is recommended
  • no real words or names
• Never share your password or login information with anyone.
• Never bank or shop online using computers at kiosks, cafes, unsecured computers or unsecured wireless networks.
• When exiting an digital banking session, always use the Log Out function and close the browser window.
• When traveling, only use legitimate WiFi hotspots. Hackers sometime create a bogus hotspot by spoofing the name of the hotel/restaurant with something similar or vague name to trick you into logging on to their network so that they can track your activity.
• When not actively using a hotspot, turn the WiFi feature “off” so that your device is not visible to others. Not only does this prevent data transfers between your device and nearby wireless networks, it also helps save your device’s battery.

Avoiding Phishing, Spyware, Malware

• Never open email from unknown sources.
• Never respond to a suspicious email or click on any attachments or hyperlinks.
• Be cautious of emails from financial institutions asking for personal or account information. NASA Federal Credit Union does not send emails asking for personal or account information.
• Install a firewall, especially if you have a broadband Internet connection such as DSL or cable modem.
• For business members using online banking services – make sure the computers your employees use for work have the most up-to-date anti-virus/anti-spyware protection.
• For business members using online banking services – it is recommended you educate employees about current scams and loss-prevention steps, and perform a periodic evaluation of computer usage and controls.

For more information about Online Banking Security, refer to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) website:

1. Computers & the Internet: http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/menus/consumer/tech.shtm
2. OnGuard Online (Provides practical tips from the federal government and the technology industry to help you be on guard against Internet fraud, secure your computer, and protect your personal information): http://onguardonline.gov/