Using the Internet Safely

While your credit union has implemented a variety of security measures to maintain your privacy and security it is important to remember that YOU need to take steps to keep your computer and personal information secure as well. 

For Your Computer

Firewall

Installing a firewall helps prevent unauthorized access to your computer.  Some systems come with a firewall already installed, however it may or may not be sufficient to protect you.

Anti-Virus Program

A virus protection program is a must for computer users.  Some viruses collect and transmit personal information, while others are designed simply to slow and destroy your operating capability.  An anti-virus program should be installed on your system, run often (i.e. weekly), and updated periodically.  Many anti-virus programs can be updated online.

Anti-Spyware Program

Spyware is programming that is picked up that secretly gathers information about you and and your online habits.  It tracks the sites you visit, and sends it out to people who have an interest in your activity.  Spyware not only invades your privacy, but it can also slow down your computer system to the point where it is virtually unusable.

Protecting Your Information

Here are some additional suggestions you can do to protect yourself in doing financial transactions:

- Use a multi-digit password - one that is difficult to guess.

- Change your password regularly.

- Do not use the same password for different secure sites.

- Keep your passwords and Personal Identification Numbers (PIN) safe and never share them.

- Never write your PIN down and carry it in your purse.

- When performing online transactions at a public computer, always make sure you log out completely before leaving the computer, and clear the cache.

- Never send confidential information via email no matter who you are planning to send it to, or why.

- Do not conduct online financial transactions where you can be observed or at Internet cafes.

- Do not follow links provided in an email form, that appears to be from your credit union or any other financial institution, that request you to provide personal information. 

Contact Us

Always monitor your account and/or statements.  If you notice unusual activity in your accounts, please contact us as soon as possible. 

Source: Internet Transactions Protection brochure - A Credit Union Central of Canada Publication