Vigilance and strong habits are your best defense against financial fraud and identity theft.

• Strong passwords & Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Use unique, complex passwords for all financial accounts. Always enable MFA (e.g., a code sent to your phone) for an extra layer of security when available. And regularly check your account to ensure the correct email and phone number are associated with it.
• Monitor accounts regularly: Consistently check your bank statements (for your checking accounts and savings accounts), credit card activity, and investment account balances for any unauthorized transactions. Report anything suspicious immediately.
• Be skeptical of unsolicited requests: Never share personal or financial information (like passwords, PINs, or account numbers) in response to unexpected calls, texts, or emails, even if they seem to be from your bank or a familiar company.
• Secure your devices & network: Keep your computer and mobile device software updated, use reputable antivirus software, and avoid banking on public Wi-Fi networks.

FNBO offers robust security features and real-time alerts.

Scammers constantly evolve their tactics, but many common scams rely on urgency, fear, or false promises.

• Impersonation scams: Scammers pretend to be from government agencies (IRS, Social Security), your bank, tech support, or even family members in distress, demanding immediate payment or personal information.
• Phishing/smishing: Fake emails (phishing) or text messages (smishing) try to trick you into clicking malicious links or revealing login credentials. Always verify the sender and the legitimacy of links.
• Investment & romance scams: Promises of unusually high returns with little risk, or online "romances" that eventually ask for money, are major red flags.
• Check fraud: Be wary of overpayment scams where you receive a fake check, deposit it, and are asked to send money back before the check bounces.

Remember: If it sounds too good to be true, or creates immediate pressure, it's likely a scam.

Read more about common scams and how to protect yourself and loved ones on our security center.

Acting quickly is crucial to minimize damage.

1. Contact your bank immediately: Report any unauthorized transactions or suspicious activity to your bank right away. They can freeze accounts or block cards.
2. Change passwords: Update passwords for any compromised accounts, and use new, strong passwords for all other important accounts.
3. Place fraud alerts/freezes: Contact one of the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion) to place a fraud alert or credit freeze on your credit report. This makes it harder for criminals to open new accounts in your name.
4. File reports: File a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at IdentityTheft.gov and consider filing a police report.
5. Monitor your accounts: Continue to monitor your bank and credit accounts diligently for any further suspicious activity. FNBO offers account alerts that can notify you of certain transactions.

We use several layers of protection for your online banking:

• User ID and password: Online account access is limited to those with your unique User ID and password. We'll verify your identity with authorized personnel but will never ask you for your password.
• Encryption: We use strong encryption technology, like 256-bit encryption, to protect data as it travels between your computer and our systems. Look for the closed lock icon in your browser.
• Firewalls: Our systems are protected by monitored firewalls, designed to block unauthorized access.
• Automatic timeout: Your secure online session will automatically end after 10 minutes of inactivity, requiring you to log in again.
• Session information: We show you the date and time of your last online session so you can check for anything unusual.
• Browser requirements: To ensure secure communication, your browser must support 256-bit encryption. We support the latest versions of major browsers (Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Safari, iOS, Android).

While we have robust safeguards, your vigilance is also key. Always follow Personal Online Safeguards on your computer and devices, such as using strong, unique passwords and being wary of suspicious communications.