1. Update your Online Banking password. Change your password on a regular basis. This helps keep your accounts secure should someone get your user ID and password. Choose passwords that are difficult to guess and use alphabetic and numeric characters. Never share your password with anyone.
2. Don't open links in emails. Hackers try to get information from individuals by sending emails asking for verification of account information. These emails may say that your bank account has been closed or that it needs to be verified. If you ever receive an email of this nature, do not open the attached files, and do not provide any personal information. Columbia Credit Union will never solicit your personal or account information through email.
3. Install a firewall. A firewall protects your computer from hackers and intruders. A firewall is software that guards your computer from unauthorized or unwanted traffic. You can purchase a firewall program from your local computer store.
4. Use anti-virus software. Anti-virus software protects your computer against viruses. Viruses destroy stored information and interrupt operations. An anti-virus program detects and destroys viruses. With new viruses emerging daily, you need to regularly update your anti-virus program.
5. Use anti-spyware software. Spyware is software that gathers information electronically about people without their knowledge or consent. It then relays that information to an unauthorized third party. You may get spyware by downloading free software or by clicking on pop-ups or dialogue boxes. Always read the disclosure to understand what you are downloading. It's possible for you to inadvertently agree to accept spyware with a program you're downloading.
6. Take advantage of security updates. Your Internet service provider (AOL, for example) and your Internet browser manufacturer (e.g. Microsoft) periodically issue security updates. These updates patch holes that allow viruses to get through. If you don't have or don't use auto-update mechanisms in your software, visit the manufacturers' websites regularly to make sure you have the latest fixes.
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