Mobile Banking – Is it safe?

Mobile banking can be a convenient way to take care of your banking needs on the run. Americans are very tech savvy and seemingly too busy to slow down. The new thing is using your smart phones for banking. Gone are the days of waiting in line at your bank or credit union. Now you can access your bank account anywhere in the world.

Consumers need to be more cautious than ever when banking through any device, as hackers prey on the unsuspecting. Here are some tips from the FINRA Investor Education Foundation.

1) Password-protect your phone or tablet so that only you can access the information on your device. This will help protect you if your phone or tablet is ever lost or stolen.

2) Never provide personal information unless you initiate contact with your bank or other financial institutions. They should not request account numbers, social security numbers or other sensitive information via email or text messages. If you’re not sure about the request, contact your bank by calling them directly.

3) Don’t stay “auto-logged in” to your accounts. Even though it’s convenient, it increases the risk that an unauthorized user will access your accounts.

4) Delete old texts from your bank to reduce your exposure to fraud.

5) Report lost or stolen devices immediately to your wireless provider and financial institutions.

Thanks to the Better Business Bureau for these tips.

Good Luck.

Officer Larry Jacobs is the Crime Prevention Officer for the Sandy Springs Police Department. He can be reached at ljacobs@sandyspringsga.gov.