Online Banking Means Extra Caution

Keeping scammers away from financial info

Jeff Debrosse understands why more people are turning to their smart phones to do their banking.

"If you want a balance, if you want to transfer money, you can do it much quicker today," said Debrosse.

But the security expert with Websense says you also need to be more careful securing your privacy.

"Because at the end of the day, it's your money" said Debrosse. "Asking a few questions verifying just a little bit can save us a whole lot of money and a ton of grief."

Michelle Dennedy with the security company McAfee says it takes more effort today to protect your personal information.

"I think the banks really understand the risk involved," said Dennedy. "I'm not quite sure that everyone who uses a mobile device understands the power that the device has."

Today more than half of U.S. adults do some sort of online or mobile banking.

People have shifted from paper money to plastic. Today, you can even deposit a check without a bank employee ever touching it.

But there are simple rules people need to use to protect their banking information. It starts with a good password.

"It's a great way to protect  yourself in case someone gets your phone, or takes your phone or if you leave it somewhere," said Debrosse.

You need to be careful when downloading financial apps, making sure it comes from trusted financial institutions or your own bank.

It is also important to question unsolicited contact from people claiming to be from your bank. It could be a phone call or an email, but online bankers need to be skeptical of anyone asking for financial information.

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