In October 2005, the Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council (FFIEC) issued guidance to all financial institutions requiring them to examine the sufficiency of their authentication methods for allowing clients access to their online banking systems. The FFIEC has required that all financial institutions have “Multi-Factor Authentication” in place for those online transactions that the financial institution deems necessary. Multi-Factor Authentication goes beyond simple usernames and passwords, and adds new levels of security to protect your account and your information.
At Heritage Bank of Commerce, we take the privacy and security of your financial information very seriously. We continually strive to provide the highest level of security possible, while maintaining the usability and ease-of-use that you have come to expect from your online banking system. In accordance with the FFIEC’s guidance, Heritage Bank of Commerce will be introducing a new online banking system later this year that provides enhanced security for all clients. All online banking clients will be protected by our new advanced security systems by early 2007.
In a more recent guidance to financial institutions, the FFIEC would like all financial institutions to remind their clients that the potential for “Phishing” attacks may increase as their original deadline for increased security draws near.
“PHISHING”
Please be aware that many fraud schemes known as “Phishing” (pronounced “fishing”) are being perpetrated with increased frequency, creativity and intensity over the internet. While no incidents have been reported to Heritage Bank of Commerce, we want to alert you to these schemes.
Phishing schemes attempt to obtain your personal information such as social security number, bank account numbers, passwords, etc. by sending e-mails which appear to be from legitimate sources. They often contain logos, graphics or a return e-mail address similar to that of your financial institution or other trusted business relationships.
Always use extreme caution in giving out your personal information. Never give it out to an unsolicited caller either by phone or e-mail. Be suspicious of an unexpected caller or e-mailer who asks you to provide this information. Never provide this information unless you have initiated the contact yourself or are absolutely sure of whom you are communicating with.
“SPYWARE”
“Spyware” refers to programs or “cookies” installed on your personal computer – most often without your knowledge -- for the purpose of collecting confidential information and forwarding it to a third party. Certain forms of spyware can intercept sensitive and confidential information, including passwords, credit card numbers, and account numbers.
It is imperative that you take appropriate steps to assure that the computer you are using to access your online banking system is free from spyware. Many commercially available products have been developed to assist in assuring that your personal computer is clean. In addition, it is not advisable to use unknown or un-trusted “public” computers to access your online accounts.
Please note that Heritage Bank of Commerce will not request any personal information from you via e-mail, nor will we initiate a telephone call and ask you to give it. If you should receive a request for such information which appears to have come from us, please contact us immediately at 800-796-4777.
This is not a solicitation.
