Online Security at Petrus Private Bank
At Petrus Private Bank, we enforce the highest levels of digital security to ensure you can bank with confidence. By following the general advice below, you can take proactive steps to enhance your online security and minimize potential risks.
Protect Your Authenticate Credentials
Accessing Personal Internet Banking requires authentication credentials, including your username and password. These credentials must be carefully selected and protected to prevent unauthorized access to your account. To enhance security, consider the following:
Choose a complex, non-guessable password that is at least eight characters long and includes a combination of letters, numbers, and special characters. Memorize your password instead of writing it down. Never share your password with anyone. Change your password regularly or if you suspect it has been compromised. Use different passwords for different websites and services. Avoid saving your username and password for future logins on shared or public devices.
Personal Internet Banking also includes an enhanced security feature requiring a one-time password (OTP) issued via a security token. This token forms part of your authentication credentials and should not be shared with anyone.
Install Anti-Virus Software
Installing reputable anti-virus software helps prevent, detect, and remove malicious threats such as malware, Trojans, spyware, and adware. These threats can compromise your personal information, slow down your device, and even exploit your system for further attacks. To ensure optimal protection, keep your anti-virus software updated regularly.
Update Your Web browser
Modern web browsers provide built-in protection against fraudulent websites and online threats. A web browser is a software application used to access and navigate the internet. Keeping your browser updated ensures you benefit from the latest security patches and safeguards against known vulnerabilities.
Keep Your Computer Software Updated
Cybercriminals exploit vulnerabilities in outdated software to infect computers. Software developers regularly release updates to fix security gaps and improve performance. Always install updates for your operating system and applications as soon as they become available. Be cautious of fake emails claiming to offer software updates—use official update mechanisms provided by your device or software provider.
Avoid Using Untrusted Devices
Refrain from accessing online banking services or conducting financial transactions on public or shared computers, such as those in internet cafés. These devices may contain malware or spyware that can capture sensitive information.
Do Not Share Private Information Online
Review your privacy settings on social media platforms to control who can access your personal information. Avoid sharing sensitive details such as your address, birth date, bank account number, or phone number online. Cybercriminals can use such information for identity theft or unauthorized access to your banking accounts. If you need to share highly confidential information, consider using encryption technology to protect it.
Always take reasonable precautions to protect your security details and prevent unauthorized use of your banking credentials. Review the terms and conditions associated with your accounts for additional security guidelines.
Protect Your Mobile Devices
Your mobile devices may store a significant amount of personal data and be used for online banking and shopping. To protect them, follow these precautions:
Set and use a security PIN code to lock your device. Configure automatic locking after a short period of inactivity. Avoid storing passwords or sensitive information in a way that can be easily accessed. Do not label your home phone number or address as “Home” in your contacts, as this could be misused by thieves. Carefully review app permissions before installation to ensure they align with their intended function. Be cautious of voicemail and text message scams.
If your mobile device is lost or stolen, report it to your service provider immediately and update your banking records as soon as possible. Keeping a record of your device’s IMEI number can help your service provider disable it if necessary.
Clear Your Browser Cache
Web browsers store cache files and browsing history that may contain sensitive information. Always remember to clear your browser’s cache and history after each online banking session and log out completely to ensure your data is removed, particularly when using a shared or public computer.
By taking these precautions and staying vigilant, you can help safeguard your online banking experience and protect your sensitive information from cyber threats.