Mobile Banking Security for Businesses - How to Keep Your Mobile Device Secure

The Vantage Bank mobile banking app is an extremely secure, convenient, and timesaving tool for users. Because mobile banking is one of the most popular options for managing your accounts, security of your mobile device is essential. Here are some tips to help keep your information safe while using your mobile device for banking.

• Configure your device to require a passcode to gain access. Once you have a passcode, keep it private. Passcodes can be in the form of numbers, but many mobile devices also offer features such as facial recognition and fingerprinting technology for additional security. These features prevent scammers from accessing sensitive information on your device if your device gets lost or stolen.
• Avoid storing sensitive information on your mobile device. Sensitive information can include passwords, account numbers, social security numbers and more. Mobile devices have a high likelihood of being lost or stolen, so you should avoid using them to store sensitive information. If sensitive data is stored, enable encryption to secure it.
• Keep your mobile device’s software up-to-date. Updates generally contain components that improve security of your device.
• Use care when downloading apps. Review the privacy policy and data access of any applications (apps) before installing them. Make sure to only download mobile apps from reputable sources such as your provider’s app store to avoid downloading applications with malware or malicious code.
• Disable features not actively in use. This includes Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and infrared. Set Bluetooth-enabled devices to “non-discoverable” when Bluetooth is enabled. When in discoverable mode, your Bluetooth-enabled device is visible to other nearby devices why may include a cyber attacker’s device.
• Delete all information on a device before the device changes ownership. Use a “hard factory reset” to permanently erase all content and settings stored on the device. Check with your device’s manufacturer for information about securely deleting data. Your mobile phone provider may also have useful information on securely wiping your device.
• “Sign Out” and/or “Log Off” when finished with an app, rather than just closing it. Regardless of how you entered the banking website or app, logging out will sever the connection and protect you if your device is lost or later connected to a public Wi-Fi service.
• Utilize antivirus software on ALL electronic devices that can run antivirus. This includes Apple iPhones/iPads, Android Phones, Linux, MacOS, and Windows based laptops, desktops, and tablets.
• Do not jailbreak or otherwise circumvent security controls. “Jailbreaking” is the process of removing the locked features or limitations imposed by the provider’s root operating system. Doing this can expose a device to security vulnerabilities and may prevent the device from receiving future operating system and security updates.
• Be cautious of unsolicited phone calls, emails, social media, and texts. These can direct you to a scamming website or request personal information. Phishing is the most common method hackers use to steal sensitive information. Avoid clicking on links sent via email, social media, or texting apps from untrusted users. These links can lead to fake websites or download malware on to your device that can eventually steal your information.

To learn more about information security, visit any of the following websites or contact our team at Vantage Bank.

• OnGuardOnline.gov
• StaySafeOnline.org
• BBB.org/Data-Security
• US-CERT.gov

DISCLAIMER: This material is for informational purposes only. Vantage Bank assumes no liability for any loss or damage resulting from one's reliance on the material provided.