Online and mobile banking apps allow for budgeting, sending, transferring, and paying bills to be done from virtually anywhere.
As a result, more people are using mobile devices such as iPads to manage their finances.
But as this becomes the norm, many are starting to wonder if it is safe to do online banking on their tablet or iPad?
Tablets and smartphones are often the target of hackers because these devices are used the most by individuals while accessing shared Wi-Fi networks in public.
However, it is possible to securely do banking on an iPad or tablet by taking quick and easy precautions — many of which can be applied to all devices, not just Apple products.
1. Use a Secured Mobile Banking App
Banking apps are designed to receive updates and withstand cyberattacks.
Individuals should opt to do mobile banking on an official banking app rather than through a web browser like Safari or Google Chrome.
This is because while the institution’s website is secure, the browser itself may not be.
A financial institution’s verified app can be found for download directly on its website. Typically, banking apps include a multi-step authentication process to login, especially from new devices.
Multi-step authentication helps to increase the overall security of the banking app.
HRCCU’s mobile and online banking app allows members to manage their finances with peace of mind due to its two-step verification system.
To login, HRCCU members must input a password and then a verification code, which can be sent to them multiple ways, including text message or phone call.
During setup, members can choose how they’d like to receive app alerts and verification codes. This way, the authorized user is the only one with the ability to access the account.
Members can also opt for authentication techniques, such as fingerprint identification or touch-id.
2. Modify App Permissions
Like most other types of apps, mobile banking apps allow users to adjust the security measures through the settings.
Permission adjustments can include requests like allowing the app to use the location of the device or managing what devices can be used to access an account.
Enabling these permissions creates the opportunity for your personal information to be visible online.
Disabling the permissions within the app helps to increase the level of privacy given to the user’s internet banking activity.
3. Avoid Public Wi-Fi
If possible, avoid conducting important internet activity, like online banking, on public servers or Wi-Fi hotspots — especially if it isn’t password protected. Such activity should be done on personal or private networks only.
While in public, it’s important to utilize a personal hotspot provided by the mobile device or password-protected, public Wi-Fi.
This form of Wi-Fi can be offered by coffee shops or other businesses for the patrons to utilize while receiving services. It is similar to the Wi-Fi used at home or at work in the sense that it is protected by a password.
Password-protected Wi-Fi that is available through a business keeps access limited to the business’s customers. This is safer than an open Wi-Fi or hotspot, which can allow anyone within range to access the server.
4. Hide Notifications for Information-Sensitive Apps
It’s important to set up a device so it can block both in-person and remote attacks. This way, even if your device is stolen, banking information and other private details can remain safe.
One aspect of security that’s often overlooked by both iPad and tablet users are the push notifications.
While those alerts, messages, and reminders displayed on the lock screen may appear harmless, a thief can gain a lot of valuable information from them — particularly those from banking apps.
Push notifications can be tailored through the notification menu in the settings app on the tablet or mobile device. Users can then choose to hide or turn off notifications for any app.
The notifications from apps containing sensitive information — like a banking or email app, should be removed from the lock screen display.
5. Keep Software Updated & Information Backed Up
When a device’s operating system has an available update, it generally notifies the user.
It’s important that users take time to update the device’s operating system because viruses and other cyber-attacks can evolve to bypass old software much more easily.
To ensure information is not lost or corrupted during the updating process, users should first back up their information. For iPad users, information can be backed up to iCloud.
Backups can also be encrypted or secured from unauthorized users by selecting the “encrypt local backups” option.
Encrypting a backup means information from that backup can only be viewed after inputting a password, which the user creates while setting up the encryption feature.
Bank Securely with HRCCU
Those who choose HRCCU can feel rest assured that their information is protected. HRCCU takes the necessary safety precautions to secure members’ online banking activity, including:
- Multi-Step Verification Process: HRCCU online accounts must be accessed using a two-step verification process. In addition to a password, members can verify their account through device identification, touch-id, inputting a PIN, or by answering security questions.
- Encryption: HRCCU uses security software to encrypt or hide all members’ information from unauthorized viewers.
- IP Monitoring: To limit fraud, HRCCU blocks activity from illegitimate sources.
Whether it’s on an iPad, tablet, or other mobile device, members can conduct internet banking with confidence through HRCCU. Our service providers and moderators are committed to keeping members safe while online.
To learn more about the secure online banking services provided by HRCCU, contact us.
