Are Mobile Devices a Cybersecurity Risk?

Using your mobile device for banking can seem scary. Are you unsure about depositing a check on your phone and prefer just going into the bank? If you said yes, don’t worry, you aren’t alone! But with a few helpful tips and the Union Bank® Mobile Banking app, you can take advantage of 24/7 banking, enjoy the convenience of depositing a check without leaving your home and even pay your bills right from your phone.

And with mobile banking, you have the ability to set-up email, text or in-app push notifications regarding account balances, recent withdrawals and other account activities. This way, you can enjoy the freedom and flexibility that mobile banking provides without the worry.

Following these mobile cybersecurity tips, you can take advantage of the benefits of mobile banking, while feeling confident your personal information is safe and protected:

• Secure passwords - Choosing a secure password or passcode is important to protect yourself from fraud or identity theft.  Read our article for more information about how to choose (and remember) a secure password. 
• Avoid unsecure internet connections - It's easy to identify unsecure wireless networks (wi-fi).  If you are not required to enter a password to connect, the internet connection is not secure.  Whenever possible, avoid using these types of public network connections for performing activities involving personal and/ or sensitive information, such as banking.
• Keep your apps up to date - Most mobile operating systems and apps have an option to auto-update, or at least notify you when an update is available.  This is a great way to make sure that your mobile device is up-to-date at all times.  Keeping your operating system (for examples, iOS on an iPhone) and apps updated ensures that you receive security updates and improvements to keep your mobile device secure.  Additionally, it's a great idea to review all of your apps and remove any that you no longer use.
• Review app permissions - Apps often need access to certain features on your phone in order to function.  This can include your camera, files, audio and location data.  In addition to making sure your apps are up-to-date and removing any apps you no longer need, it is also a good idea to review your app permissions, which are typically found within the privacy settings on your mobile device.  If you no longer need or want an app to have access to your files and camera, for example, removing that access is another way to minimize your mobile security risk.
• Avoid scam and phishing links - Avoid clicking on suspicious links in emails or text messages, even if they appear to be from reliable sources, such as your bank.  Instead, use your bank's mobile app or go directly to your bank's website.  For more tips on how to protect yourself from scam and phishing attempts - including tips on what banks will never ask - take a look at our recent Banks Never Ask That article.