Online Banking Tips

As use of the Internet continues to expand, more banks are using the Web to offer products and services or otherwise enhance communications with consumers.

The Internet offers the potential for safe, convenient new ways to shop for financial services and conduct banking business, any day, any time. However, safe banking online involves making good choices - decisions that will help you avoid costly surprises or even scams.

Read the following tips, from the FDIC, to protect yourself while banking online.

• Confirm that an online bank [and website] is legitimate and that your deposits are insured.
• Keep your personal information private and secure.
• Understand your rights as a consumer.
• Learn where to go for more assistance from banking regulators.

To learn more about safe online banking, visit the Safe Internet Banking page at the FDIC website. Remember, being aware can prevent identity theft and protect your credit rating!

Online Banking Self-Check

Now, you try. Complete the self-check activity by looking at the prompts below - thinking about each prompt - and then click on the questions to review the explanations.

What are some of the advantages of online banking?

Online banking is very convenient. It is easier to notice fraudulent transactions because you can always check your activity online.

What are some of the disadvantages of online banking?

Although the bank tries to make their website as secure as possible, sometimes problems happen. Also, you may not always have access to a computer or to the internet to check your account activity. Using the internet is also not as personal as dealing with a bank representative that you see each week.