Online Banking Security

One of the basic tools used to ensure Internet security is encryption. Encryption involves exchanging numbers between the end user's browser and the Internet banking server. The numbers act as keys to "unlock" the connection between browser and server, much like numbers on a combination lock. The higher the number of combinations, the less likely it is that an outside party could decipher the key and access sensitive information.

It is also important to verify that only authorized users log into the Internet Banking system. We use password verification to ensure user authorization. For added security, if a password is entered incorrectly five times, we automatically lock the Internet Banking account.

We also "time out" an Internet Banking session after a specified period of inactivity. This keeps others from viewing or continuing Internet Banking activity if you leave your PC unattended. If you wish to shorten or lengthen the amount of time it takes to "time out" your session, click on the User Options button on the menu bar of Internet Banking.

We have structured our network architecture so that the servers which store your actual account information are NOT connected to the Internet. The requests you make through the Internet are handled by our Internet servers.

All of our systems are secured with multiple layers of encryption, firewalls, screening and filtering routers, intrusion detection, strict authentication, and virus protection.

The Internet Banking section of our web site is automatically secured/encrypted. To determine if a session is secure, check the lock icon at the lower left corner of Netscape's screen or the lower right corner of the Internet Explorer screen. If the lock is closed, the section of the site you are on is secure. If the lock is open, it is not secure. (Other browsers that support secured sites may use a different icon, but the principle is the same). You may also look at the "address" of the page you are on. If the address has https, the s indicates the page is secure.

Our members' privacy and account security is a priority to MIT Federal Credit Union, and we would encourage you to follow some simple guidelines to add to that protection.

• Never reveal your password to anyone for any reason.
• Take advantage of the case sensitive aspect of our password program. Alternate upper and lower cases i.e.: AbCCdsF
• Change your password (in User Options) every six months.
• Use the Log Off button to end a session. Do not use the back key.
• Do not set your Time Out Sessions (User Options) for too long a time frame.
• Change your password whenever you delete a signer from your account.
• Balance your account at a minimum of once a month, so any discrepancies can be reported in a timely manner.