Online Security for Consumers
As part of Northwest Bank's ongoing effort to keep consumers informed, we would like to provide you with information regarding online safety and security. Please know that we are constantly analyzing and improving our software to minimize fraudulent activity to access information and will provide updates to ensure the utmost security.
Here are a few tips to help fight fraud online
- Unsecured Websites - Ensure that the website where you enter you online banking credentials, is the correct website. Hackers can create a site that looks very similar to a legitimate site. Never provide Account Numbers, Access ID's or Social Security Numbers to an unfamiliar person or company. Northwest Bank will never contact you unsolicited to request your online banking credentials. If you are visiting a website, it's best to type in the Web address itself. Links in email messages, text messages or pop-up ads can take you to websites that look legitimate but are not.
- Secure Website - Before you enter sensitive data on a Web page, ensure the Web address begins with "https", not just "http." The "s" stands for secure. Additionally, if you have an encrypted connection, you will notice a closed padlock icon either next to the Web address or in the lower right corner of the screen.
- Watch out for Scams - It is important to be vigilant and watch out for scams. Be wary of emails that contain information on deals that sound too good to be true, contain alerts about your bank account with links to enter your account information, etc. These emails could easily be the work of cyber criminals looking to collect your financial data.
- Conduct Financial Transactions at Home - Never pay bills, bank, shop, or do other financial business on a public or shared computer. The security within these networks is unreliable.
- Pay attention to browser warnings - Ensure you thoroughly read any pop-up messages and security warnings that appear on the screen. You should not continue viewing the site unless you understand the risks stemming from these messages.
- Examine bank statements – Keep on top of bank statements and immediately report losses and unauthorized payments due to counterfeiting or forgery.
- Viruses and Spyware – Continually upgrade your virus protection software to protect your data.
- Attachments – Don’t open email attachments from unknown sender.
Contact us immediately at 1.800.678.4105 or stop by any of our locations, if you notice suspicious account activity or experience customer information security related events.