Rest assured Auburn OnLine is safe and secure. That’s why we use 128-bit secure sockets layer (SSL) encryption, systems that are monitored and constantly updated, and multiple security layers and procedures. However, Internet security does not rely on technology alone. Ultimately, when dealing with spyware, viruses, and computer hackers, each of us has the responsibility to protect our own system. We want to make you aware of several straightforward security tips. We highly recommend you take the following steps to protect yourself and your system:
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- Keep your computer up to date with the latest patches for known vulnerabilities: For Windows users, open your browser, and go to “Tools.” Click on “Windows Update,” and follow the instructions on downloading the latest patches.
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- Make sure your computer has the most current anti-virus software and run it regularly. Anti-virus software needs frequent updates to guard against new viruses. We recommend that you use a program that automatically upgrades your virus protection on a regular basis. If you currently do not have this automatic upgrade feature, make sure you update your virus detection program weekly and when you hear of a new virus.
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- Run anti-spyware software to remove any spyware from your computer. If your anti-virus product doesn’t include spyware protection, we recommend that you install a reputable spyware detection product as well. Many commercially available anti-virus software packages can detect adware/spyware programs on your computer. If detected, you should remove them immediately. (Pop-up ads are indications that adware/spyware is most likely running on your machine)
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- Install a personal firewall to help prevent unauthorized access to your home computer. This is especially important if you connect to the Internet via a cable modem or a digital subscriber line (DSL) modem. For information about anti-virus and anti-spyware software and personal firewalls, we suggest you check with your ISP’s or computer manufacturer’s web site.
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- Use a strong password and change it often. Choose passwords that are difficult for others to guess and use a different password for each of your online accounts. Use both letters and numbers as well as a combination of lower case and capital letters. Change your password every 3 or 4 months.
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- Don’t reply to any email that requests your personal information. Be very suspicious of any email from a business or person that asks for your password, Social Security number, or other highly sensitive information. Also beware of any email that sends you personal information and asks you to update or confirm it.
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- Leave suspicious sites. If you suspect that a website is not what it purports to be, leave the site immediately. Do not follow any of the instructions it presents. For Microsoft Internet Explorer (IE) users, setting your browser security setting to “high,” a level that makes it more difficult to interact with some Web sites, is also recommended.
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- Be alert for scam emails. These may appear to come from a trusted business or friend, but actually are designed to trick you into downloading a virus or linking to a fraudulent website and disclosing sensitive information.
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- Open emails only when you know the sender. Be especially careful about opening an email with an attachment. We advise you to not open attachments unless you are confident that you can trust the source.
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- Do not send sensitive personal or financial information unless it is encrypted on a secure website. Regular emails are not encrypted and are more like sending a post card. Anyone can read it. Look for the padlock symbol to ensure that the site is running in secure mode before you enter confidential personal information.
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- When your computer is not in use, shut it down or disconnect it from the Internet.
- Act quickly if you suspect fraud. If you believe someone is trying to commit fraud and/or if you think you may have provided personal or account information in response to a fraudulent email or Web site, report the incident immediately, change your passwords and monitor your account activity frequently.
Together we can ensure that your financial information will remain safe and secure, while providing you with convenient, quality online banking services.