Online Banking

West Town Bank & Trust is committed to the security of our customers.  Below you will find information and resources regarding customer awareness and education for online banking.  The information and resources are relative to both retail and commercial account holders which utilize online banking.

If you are a commercial online banking (eCorp) customer, we also suggest you take advantage of our free Risk Assessment and Controls Evaluation.

Mobile Device Security

• Configure your device to require a passcode to gain access if this feature is supported in your device.
• Avoid storing sensitive information. Mobile devices have a high likelihood of being lost or stolen so you should avoid using them to store sensitive information (e.g. passwords, bank account numbers, etc.). If sensitive data is stored then encryption should be used to secure it.
• Keep your mobile device’s software up-to-date. These devices are small computers running software that needs to be updated just as you would update your PC. Use the automatic update option if one is available.
• Review the privacy policy and data access of any applications (apps)before installing them.
• Disable features not actively in use such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and infrared.Set Bluetooth-enabled devices to non-discoverable when Bluetooth is enabled.
• Delete all information stored on a device before the device changes ownership. Use a “hard factory reset” to permanently erase all content and settings stored on the device.
• “Sign out” or “Log off” when finished with an app rather than just closing it.

Online Security

• Never give out online banking credentials 
• Never click on suspicious links in emails, tweets, posts, nor online advertising. Links can take you to a different website than their labels indicate. Typing an address in your browser instead of clicking a link in an email is a safer alternative.
• Only give sensitive information to websites using encryption so your information is protected as it travels across the Internet. Verify the web address begins with “https://” (the “s” is for secure) rather than just “http://”. Some browsers also display a closed padlock.
• Do not trust sites with certificate warnings or errors. These messages could be caused by your connection being intercepted or the web server misrepresenting its identity.
• Avoid using public computers or public wireless access points for online banking and other activities involving sensitive information when possible.
• Always “sign out” or “log off” of password protected websites when finished to prevent unauthorized access. Simply closing the browser window may not actually end your session.
• Be cautious of unsolicited phone calls, emails, or texts directing you to a website or requesting information.

General PC Security

• Maintain active and up-to-date antivirus protection provided by a reputable vendor. Schedule regular scans of your computer in addition to real-time scanning.
• Update your software frequently to ensure you have the latest security patches. This includes your computer’s operating system and other installed software (e.g. Web Browsers, Adobe Flash Player, Adobe Reader, Java, Microsoft Office, etc.).
• Automate software updates, when the software supports it, to ensure it’s not overlooked.
• If you suspect your computer is infected with malware, discontinue using it for banking, shopping, or other activities involving sensitive information. Use security software and/or professional help to find and remove malware.
• Use firewalls on your local network to add another layer of protection for all the devices that connect through the firewall (e.g. PCs, smart phones, and tablets).
• Require a password to gain access. Log off or lock your computer when not in use.
• Use a cable lock to physically secure laptops, when the device is stored in an untrusted location.

Passwords

• Create a unique password for all the different systems you use. If you don’t then one breach leaves all your accounts vulnerable.
• Never share your password over the phone, in texts, by email, or in person. If you are asked for your password it’s probably a scam.
• Use unpredictable passwords with a combination of lowercase letters, capital letters, numbers, and special characters.
• The longer the password, the tougher it is to crack. Use a password with at least 8 characters. Every additional character exponentially strengthens a password.
• Avoid using obvious passwords such as:
  • your name
  • your business name
  • family member names
  • your user name
  • birthdates
  • dictionary words
• Choose a password you can remember without writing it down. If you do choose to write it down, store it in a secure location.

Additional Resources

To learn more about information security visit any of the following websites:

• OnGuardOnline.gov
• StaySafeOnline.org
• BBB.org/Data-Security
• US-CERT.gov

Social Engineering

In a social engineering attack, an attacker uses human interaction to manipulate a person into providing them information. People have a natural tendency to trust. Social engineering attacks attempt to exploit this tendency in order to steal your information. Once the information has been stolen it can be used to commit fraud or identity theft.

Please be alert and take extra care when opening emails and texts and answering phone calls.

COVID-19 has created opportunities for unscrupulous people to conduct scams and fraud,  and unfortunately, we’re seeing more of both.

Please be extra vigilant with your data and account information. If you have any doubts or suspicions about your security or privacy, call us at (866) 652-5652. Our family at West Town Bank & Trust hopes you and your family are staying safe and well.

Register for online account access (Personal accounts only). To begin taking advantage of eCorp Online Banking, visit one of our bankers or email us.

To reset your password please visit our NetTeller page.  If problems persist, visit one of our bankers or email us.

To begin taking advantage of WTBT Online Banking, you may contact us for assistance, or visit one of our customer service representatives for assistance.

• Check your account balances
• Print check images
• Monitor transaction activity
• Review, reconcile and print your bank statements
• Download your account activity to your personal financial software such as Quicken® or MSMoney®

• Pay all your bills with ease in minutes
• Add as many payees and pay as many bills as you like each month
• Deliver your payments on time

• Transfer funds between your WTBT personal accounts and accounts you may have at other financial institutions
• Schedule transfers for future dates, or set up one-time or repeating transfers
• View and search your online transfer history

In a social engineering attack, an attacker uses human interaction to manipulate a person into providing them information. People have a natural tendency to trust. Social engineering attacks attempt to exploit this tendency in order to steal your information.