A checking account is an important tool in your financial freedom, and it is an account that you will frequently access and rely on. It is crucial to be careful when it comes to the security of your checking account because carelessness on your part can lead to negative consequences such as fraudulent unauthorized purchases or identity theft. Whether you are opening your first checking account or maintaining an account that you have had for years, there are important steps that you should follow to ensure your money is safe and sound.
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Difficulty:
Moderately Easy
Instructions
1
Review all statements and account information thoroughly each month and verify that all of the account activity is legitimate. Catching fraudulent purchases early will help your bank cancel or reverse the charges and restore your account security.
2
Safeguard your account information. Do not share your account pin number or online login information. Keep all of your statements and banking information in a safe place or shred the documents if you do not want to keep a record of them.
3
Maintain your computer security by using personal firewalls and antivirus software to ensure personal banking information cannot be “phished” from your computer. According to OnGuard Online, you should not respond to any emails asking for your personal account information because these are attempts to steal your banking information.
4
Log out completely when you are accessing your account online. It is the safest if you can use your personal computer, but if you use a public computer, clear all personal information that could be seen by others.
5
Purchase items online only when you are familiar with the site and it is secured. According to the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, there will be a lock or an icon indicating whether or not the site is secured. If you doubt the security of the site, you can use Pay Pal and have the funds deducted from your account in a safer manner.
6
Run your personal credit check yearly. This simple procedure, which can be done online, will show all of the accounts and credit cards open in your name. This will help ensure that your accounts remain secure and your identity has not been compromised.
PayPal offers numerous ways to fund purchases when you're shopping online, including bank account transfers. Using your checking account with your PayPal...