Personal Banking Security

No one wants to become a victim of cyber fraud, but if it does happen, responding to it quickly is of the utmost importance. Below are ways to help you identify when you may be the victim of cyber fraud, or when you should consider contacting us for assistance.

1. Do not respond to unexpected emails or click on pop-up web pages asking for personal information or your password—Someone may be trying to steal your information.
2. If you receive a maintenance screen after you logged into the site with your ID and password, it may be an indication of malware on your PC.
3. If you see unknown transactions or balance inconsistencies on your bank account statement—Contact People’s United Bank immediately.
4. If you receive an email alert regarding a change of password, change of email address, or transaction that you did not initiate—Contact People’s United Bank immediately.

Computers that are not appropriately protected can become an open gateway for cyber criminals to access your online account or perform malicious activity. Unfortunately antivirus alone is not enough to protect you from malware. Below are basic tips to protect your computer.

1. Update your computer software and operating system regularly—Adobe, Java, Internet browser, etc.

2. Update your anti-virus software and scan your computer for viruses regularly.

3. Turn off your computer when not in use - A computer cannot be compromised when it is off.

4. Use encryption on your home wireless network.

5. Do you click on attachments or links in unsolicited emails.

6. Beware of suspicious pop-ups that request you to act immediately.

Your online account has built-in security options you can use to protect your online accounts. Don’t wait until you’re a victim of cyber fraud to protect yourself.

1. Check Your Last Login Date: When you logon, your last logon date is displayed on the People's United Bank welcome page. Always check this date to ensure someone else is not using your account.

2. Register Your Computer: Not only will this make logging on to your account quicker, it reduces the chance that the answers to your security questions will be compromised.

3. Check your Email Alerts: Alerts will notify you about activity on your account. Review alerts immediately can protect against fraudulent activity on your account.

4. Enroll into E-Statements: Receive your statements electronically. Paper statements can divulge your financial information if stolen from your mailbox.

5. Review Account Activity: Review your online accounts for any transactions you did not initiate. Early detection may prevent large losses.

6. Use a strong Password: Passwords should include ALL of the following: at least 8 characters, both letters and numbers, and avoid using common words. The best passwords are not words found in the dictionary.

When you use a mobile device (cellular phone, iPhone, iPod touch®, AndroidTM-powered device, or other device) for browser or text-based account access, keep these tips in mind:

1. Use the keypad lock or phone lock function on your mobile device when it is not in use. These functions password-protect your device so that nobody else can use it or view your information. Also be sure to store your device in a secure location. Frequently delete text messages from your financial institution, especially before logging out, discarding, or selling your mobile device.

2. Never disclose any personal information via text message (account numbers, passwords, or any combination of sensitive information like your social security number or birth date that could be used in ID theft).

3. People’s United Bank will never contact you via e-mail, text, or other means for purposes of obtaining your sensitive information, passwords, or mobile phone information (SIM card #, serial #, IMEI #).

4. If you lose your mobile device or change your mobile phone number, remove the old number from your mobile banking profile ASAP at peoples.com or call customer service at 1-800-894-0300. Contact your mobile carrier ASAP for assistance in handling your lost or stolen phone / device.

Mobile banking applications are programs you can download to your mobile device. Applications or “apps” that let you monitor your finances and conduct certain transactions are increasing in popularity.

1. To ensure the safety of your personal account information, download mobile apps from reputable sources only. We encourage users to download the most recent version of our apps. You can download the People's United Bank iPhoneTM App from the iTunes® Apps Store and the People's United Bank Mobile App for AndroidTM from the Android Market

2. For your security, sign off when you finish using a People's United Bank app rather than just closing it.

If you have suspicions about the authenticity of a mobile banking app, web-enabled mobile phone users can visit peoples.com automatically linking you to our official mobile banking site.