Online Banking Safety: 5 Simple Ways to Protect You and Your Money

Your Guide to Safer Online Banking

Online banking is convenient, fast, and a part of everyday life, but keeping your financial information safe requires a few smart habits. With cyber threats constantly evolving, it’s more important than ever to protect yourself when managing money online.

The good news? Online banking is generally very safe as long as you stay alert and follow a few key steps. At Emprise Bank, we want to help you feel confident with your online banking security. That’s why we’re sharing simple, effective tips to help you keep your finances safe.

5 Simple Ways to Boost Online Banking Security

Here are five easy but powerful ways to keep your accounts safe:

1. Use Strong, Unique Passwords Avoid using the same password across multiple accounts. Choose long, complex passwords that include a mix of uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers and symbols. A password manager can help you keep track of them all. (Bonus tip: Set calendar reminders to update passwords regularly.)
2. Turn On Multi-Factor Authentication  Multi-factor authentication adds an extra layer of protection when logging in by requiring a second step to confirm it’s you, like a code sent to your phone. Multi-factor authorization makes it much harder for someone to access your account without your permission. (Bonus tip: Using an authenticator app or a biometric like a fingerprint scan can be more secure than a text or email confirmation.
3. Keep Apps and Devices Updated Updates aren’t just for new features; they often fix security gaps. Always install updates for your banking apps, antivirus software and mobile devices as soon as they’re available. (Bonus tip: Only download banking apps from official app stores.)
4. Avoid Public Wi-Fi for Banking Public Wi-Fi isn’t secure, and cybercriminals can easily intercept your data. Only check your bank accounts or make financial transactions on private, secure networks, ideally with a VPN. (Bonus tip: Use antivirus software and keep it updated.)
5. Monitor Your Accounts Often Review your statements regularly and set up alerts for account activity such as logins, balance changes and transfers. Catching unfamiliar transactions early can help you stop fraud before it gets worse. (Bonus tip: Always log out of your accounts when finished with online banking.)

Understanding Common Online Banking Threats (And How They Work)

Online banking has made managing money more convenient, but it’s also opened the door for sophisticated cyber threats. Understanding how these threats work and what they might look like in your daily life can help you stay one step ahead.

Here are the most common threats to online banking, along with examples of how they can impact you:

1. Phishing Attacks

Phishing is one of the most common scams used to trick people into revealing sensitive information. It often comes in the form of emails, text messages, or even websites that appear to be from your bank or another trusted company.

Here’s an example of how phishing works: You receive an email that looks like it's from Emprise, saying you need to click a link to verify your identity. The link could lead to a fake website designed to steal your username and password when you try to log in. 

2. Malware and Spyware

Malware is malicious software that installs itself on your device, often without your knowledge. It can log your keystrokes, steal passwords, or give hackers remote access to your system.

Here’s how malware and spyware works: You download what seems like a harmless app or file attachment, but it installs spyware that monitors everything you type. Once installed, it can silently capture your login details and send them to criminals who can access your bank account.

3. Public Wi-Fi Snooping (Man-in-the-Middle Attacks)

When you use public Wi-Fi (like at a coffee shop or airport), attackers can intercept your data if the network isn’t secured. This is called a man-in-the-middle attack.

Here’s how man-in-the-middle attacks work: You log into your online banking app while connected to hotel Wi-Fi. A hacker on the same network intercepts your session and captures your login credentials.
Your data can be read in real time, giving attackers access to your personal and financial information.

4. Weak or Reused Passwords

Using simple or reused passwords makes it easier for cybercriminals to break into your accounts. If one site is compromised and you’ve used the same password elsewhere, every account is at risk.

Here’s how weak or reused passwords can harm your online banking security: You use the same password for your email and bank account. After a breach on a shopping website, that password is posted online. Hackers often use automated tools to try stolen passwords across hundreds of websites within seconds; one of those sites could be your bank.

5. Social Engineering Scams

These scams rely on human interaction rather than technical flaws. The scammer pretends to be someone you trust, like a bank representative or even a friend, to get you to share sensitive information.

Here’s how social engineering scams work: You get a phone call from someone claiming to be from your bank’s fraud department, saying there’s been suspicious activity and asking for your account number to "verify your identity." Scammers are skilled at sounding legitimate and creating a sense of urgency to get you to drop your guard and act quickly.

Understanding these threats is the first step in defending yourself. The more you know about how fraudsters operate, the better you can spot the warning signs and keep your financial information secure.

Keep Safe When Using Mobile Banking Apps

Mobile banking is convenient, but your phone needs protection, too. Help keep your mobile banking secure by using these tips:

• Lock your device with a PIN, password, fingerprint, or face ID.
• Disable automatic connections to public Wi-Fi.
• Install updates as soon as they’re available.
• Use only official apps and check app permissions.
• Avoid storing passwords or sensitive information directly on your phone.

A few quick settings adjustments can go a long way toward securing your mobile banking experience.

When in Doubt, Reach Out

If something doesn’t look right, like a suspicious login attempt or an unfamiliar transaction, don’t wait. Contact us immediately. Fast action can prevent fraud from spreading.

At Emprise Bank, your security is our priority. Our team is here to help you protect what matters most. We have multiple ways you can reach us:

• Call 855.383.4301
• Text 855.491.0368
• Chat via the website or mobile banking

Final Thought: Online Banking Safety Starts With You

Banking online should be safe, secure, and stress-free. With a few smart habits, it can be. By following these tips and staying aware of the common risks, you’re taking powerful steps to protect your finances.

Secure banking is shared responsibility. You bring good habits, and we’ll bring the tools and support to help you bank with confidence.