As we’ve seen the world move to an increasingly digital world over the past year, it’s critical to remain vigilant when spending time online. Here are some tips to protect yourself. 

Sign up for alerts
Most financial institutions have an alert system you can sign up for that can help protect you against potential fraud on your account. Alerts allow you to receive notifications through email and/or text regarding suspicious banking activity in your account.  

Photo Contributed by Valley First, a division of First West Credit Union

Mix up your passwords and pins
Research shows that over 80% of internet users still reuse the same password across multiple websites, including their online banking pins. Create a variety of complex passwords for your online accounts, especially for websites that may contain confidential information. 

Think before you click
If you’re unsure of the authenticity of an email, delete it. Financial institutions have clear guidelines about the information they request by phone or email and will never send unsolicited emails asking for personal information or online banking credentials. If you’re unsure, visit Canada’s Anti-Fraud Centre to learn about trending scams.

Photo Contributed by Valley First, a division of First West Credit Union

Don’t forget your mobile device
It’s quite common to protect your personal computers at home with anti-virus software, but we tend to forget about our mobile devices. Download a reputable anti-virus software through your respective application store (The App Store or Google Play) to ensure you’re protected.

Kevin Haarhoff is the Senior Investigator of Corporate Security at Valley First, a division of First West Credit Union. March is Fraud Prevention Month, to learn more about how to protect yourself visit: https://www.valleyfirst.com/privacy-security/security

Valley First is a premier provider of banking, investment and insurance services for residents and businesses in the Okanagan, Similkameen and Thompson valleys. As a division of First West Credit Union, B.C.'s third-largest credit union with 50 branches throughout the province, Valley First brings innovative products, an extensive branch network and local decision making to the banking experience. For more information on Valley First, visit www.valleyfirst.com.