A Local Legacy

Public Wi-Fi is convenient when you need to stay connected on the go, but you can’t count on it to be secure. According to NortonLifeLock Inc., the consumer cybersecurity provider, some of the most significant security risks posed by public Wi-Fi include:

• Man-in-the-middle attacks, in which hackers can electronically “eavesdrop” on your banking and other online activity
• Data transmissions over unencrypted networks
• Malicious hotspots
• Malware and spyware

It’s best to avoid using online or mobile banking when you’re on a public Wi-Fi network.

Two-factor, or multifactor, authentication can add a second layer of security verification when logging in to your online or mobile banking account. First, you enter your login name and password and then you have to pass a second security test.

For example, you may need to enter a special code, verify your account through an automated phone call, use biometric verification or identify an image. This makes it difficult for a hacker or identity thief to unlock your account, even if they have your online or mobile banking password.

Your password can create an opening for hackers, even if you don’t realize it. Some common mistakes you may be making with online banking passwords include:

• Using personal information, such as your name, address or date of birth
• Choosing shorter passwords
• Relying on common words or simple number combinations
• Using the same password for multiple logins
• Not updating passwords regularly

Those things can make it easier to remember your passwords, but they make it easier for hackers to guess your password and access your online banking information.