Online and mobile banking have made managing finances more convenient than ever. From checking balances to paying bills and monitoring transactions, customers now have access to their accounts anytime, anywhere.

With that convenience comes an important responsibility: staying informed about online banking safety. While banks invest heavily in security measures, informed customers play a critical role in protecting their personal information and financial accounts.

We believe the strongest protection comes from a partnership—combining secure banking systems with informed, vigilant customers. The tips below outline practical steps every customer can take to bank online with confidence.

Start With Strong Login Habits

Your login credentials are the first line of defense against unauthorized access.

PrimeBank uses layered authentication measures to help verify that only authorized users can access online banking. This includes password verification and secure device recognition. If login attempts exceed a limited number of incorrect entries, accounts are locked until they can be safely reenabled—a key safeguard against unauthorized guessing attempts.

Customers can strengthen this protection by:

• Creating unique, complex passwords that don’t include personal information
• Avoiding reuse of passwords across multiple websites
• Keeping login credentials private and never sharing them. Use of an encrypted password manager app is encouraged.
• Using a strong multi-factor authentication (MFA) method like an authenticator app or passkey.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) recommends using long, unique passwords and enabling additional verification steps whenever available to reduce the risk of account takeover.

Protect Your Devices, Not Just Your Accounts

Online banking security doesn’t stop at the login screen. The devices you use matter just as much.

To help reduce risk:

• Lock and password-protect your computer, tablet, and phone
• Keep operating systems and apps up to date
• Avoid using public or unsecured Wi-Fi networks for banking activity

According to the CISA Cybersecurity Awareness Program, keeping devices updated and secure is one of the most effective ways to prevent cyber threats before they start.

Know How to Spot Phishing and Fraud Attempts

One of the most common ways criminals attempt to access personal information is through phishing—emails, texts, or calls designed to look legitimate but intended to deceive.

PrimeBank will never ask for sensitive information such as Social Security numbers, account numbers, or passwords through email or unsolicited phone calls.

Customers should be cautious of messages that:

• Urge immediate action or create a sense of urgency
• Contain unfamiliar links or unexpected attachments
• Ask for personal or financial information

Email and text messaging scams continue to evolve, often appearing more convincing over time. Social engineering tactics rely on trust and urgency. Taking a moment to verify requests can prevent significant issues later.

Pay Attention to Website Details

Small details can make a big difference when banking online.

Before entering login information:

• Confirm the website address is correct and spelled properly
• Look for secure indicators such as “https://”
• Avoid sites that redirect unexpectedly or appear unusual

Fraudulent websites often rely on subtle spelling changes or look-alike domains to trick users into entering credentials.

Monitor Your Accounts Regularly

Routine account monitoring is one of the most effective ways to detect potential fraud early.

Using PrimeBank’s Online & Mobile Banking, customers can:

• Review recent transactions
• Confirm deposits and withdrawals

Verify that activity matches their records. If something doesn’t look right, contacting your bank immediately can make a meaningful difference.

Practice Smart Debit Card and ATM Safety

Online safety extends to debit cards and ATM usage as well.

Customers should:

• Keep debit cards secure and never share PINs
• Shield the keypad when entering a PIN
• Review ATM receipts and compare them to account activity
• Enable real time alerts via Online & Mobile Banking to stay informed with instant notifications
• Disable the card via Online & Mobile Banking and/or notify the bank immediately if a card is lost or stolen

When using ATMs:

• Be aware of surroundings
• Only use machines in well-lit areas
• Avoid accepting help from strangers
• Complete transactions efficiently and secure cash promptly

PrimeBank encourages customers to report suspicious ATM activity both to the bank and local authorities.

Protect Your Identity Beyond Banking

Identity protection goes hand in hand with online banking safety.

Simple steps include:

• Limiting the personal information shared online
• Reviewing privacy settings on social media platforms
• Monitoring credit reports regularly and enabling real-time alerts with credit bureaus and other financial institutions to stay informed of changes.

By federal law, consumers are entitled to a free credit report every 12 months from each of the three major credit bureaus through AnnualCreditReport.com, the only authorized source.

Monitoring credit activity can help identify identity theft early and reduce long-term impact.

A Shared Commitment to Security

Banks play a significant role in protecting customer information through secure systems, monitoring, and authentication measures. Customers strengthen that protection by staying informed and practicing safe habits.

At PrimeBank, security awareness is an ongoing commitment—not a one-time conversation. We encourage customers to stay up to date on evolving fraud trends and to reach out whenever something doesn’t feel right.

If you have questions about online or mobile banking safety, or if you notice suspicious activity, our team is here to help.

Contact PrimeBank to speak with a banker who can guide you through security best practices and available tools designed to help protect your accounts.