Online Banking Security

Prairie National Bank takes security seriously and we also want you to be safe from online scams and threats. Below are some simple guidelines to help you have a worry free online banking experience.  

Identity Theft Resolution Services

  • Your MasterCard card will have new benefits. Effective July 14, 2014, benefits will include Identity Theft Resolution Services.
  • To learn more about this valuable benefit, please call 1-800-MC-ASSIST (1-800-622-7747).
  • To request a printed Guide to Benefits, call <217-682-3236>.
  • You can also visit www.mastercard.com/debitstandard-gtb for a full description of the new benefits and how to use them.

General PC Security

  • Update your software frequently to ensure you have the latest security patches. This includes your computer’s operating system and other installed software (e.g. Web Browsers, Adobe Flash Player, Adobe Reader, Java, Microsoft Office, etc.).
  • Automate software updates, to when the software supports it, to ensure updates are not overlooked.
  • Maintain active and up-to-date antivirus protection provided by a reputable vendor. Schedule regular scans of your computer in addition to real-time scanning.
  • Update your software frequently to ensure you have the latest security patches. This includes your computer’s operating system and other installed software (e.g. Web Browsers, Adobe Flash Player, Adobe Reader, Java, Microsoft Office, etc.).
  • If you suspect your computer is infected with malware, discontinue using it for banking, shopping, or other activitiesinvolving sensitive information. Use security software and/or professional help to find and remove malware.
  • Use firewalls on your local network to add another layer of protection for all the devices that connect through the firewall (e.g. PCs, smartphones, and tablets).
  • Require a password to gain access. Log off or lock your computer when not in use.
  • Use a cable lock to physically secure laptops when these devices are stored in an untrusted location.

General Online Security

  • Never click on suspicious links in emails, tweets, posts, or online advertising. Links can take you to a different website than their labels indicate. Typing an address in your browser instead of clicking a link in an email is a safer alternative.
  • Only give sensitive information to websites using encryption so your information is protected as it travels across the Internet. Verify the web address begins with “https://” (the “s” is for secure) rather than just “http://.” Some browsers also display a closed padlock.
  • Do not trust sites with certificate warnings or errors. These messages could be caused by your connection being intercepted or the web server misrepresenting its identity.
  • Avoid using public computers or public wireless access points for online banking and other activities involving sensitive information when possible.
  • Always “sign out” or “log off” of password protected websites when finished to prevent unauthorized access. Simply closing the browser window may not actually end your session.
  • Be cautious of unsolicited phone calls, emails, or texts directing you to a website or requesting sensitive information.

Password Best Practices

  • Create a unique password for all the different systems you use. If you don’t, then one breach leaves all your accounts vulnerable.
  • Never share your password over the phone, in texts, by email, or in person. If you are asked for your password, it’s probably a scam.
  • Use unpredictable passwords with a combination of lowercase letters, capital letters, numbers, and special characters.
  • The longer the password, the tougher it is to crack. Use a password with at least eight characters. Every additional character exponentially strengthens a password.
  • Avoid using obvious passwords such as:
    • your name
    • your business name
    • family member names
    • your username
    • birthdates
    • dictionary words
  • Choose a password you can remember without writing it down. If you do choose to write it down, store it in a secure location.

Please report any suspicious activity to abuse@prairienational.com or call us at 217-682-3236.