Security

Q I'm still hesitant about banking online. Can other people see my account information?
A Your account information is just as secure as it is at your physical brick and mortar bank. We've 
taken every step possible to be sure our system meets the latest security standards, including using 
> the latest security encryption methods and software.

Q What about completing applications online? How secure is that?
A Filling out applications online is as secure as the Online Banking System. Your entire session, from 
beginning to end, is encrypted. Our system supports 128-bit encryption, so you can also use the latest 
browser from Netscape or Microsoft that supports this security level. In fact, the highest encryption Netscape 
and Microsoft browsers support is 128-bit, so you will be using the highest bit encryption currently available 
> if you use a 128-bit encryption capable browser.

Q I keep hearing a lot about encryption? What exactly is it, and why does it make everything more secure?
A Encryption is basically a way to rewrite something in a code which can then be decoded later with the right key. 
The encryption we use employs a mathematical process for the key which is made up of a certain number of bits 
(hence, 128-bit encryption). The higher the number of bits, the better the encryption. While using our Online Banking 
System, all communication from you to the system and from the system to you is encrypted using a maximum of 
128 bits. In other words, when you send information to the system, your browser encrypts it using a 128-bit key,
then sends it to the system. The system then decodes the information you sent it using the key (which is 
> predetermined when your Online Banking session is started) and processes it.

Q What about information that is stored? Is it encrypted as well?
A Information stored on our system is also encrypted using at least 128 Bits.

Q What can I do to help prevent fraudulent activity against myself?
A Only install software from trusted sources and known origins. Software sent via email is particularly dangerous as 
viruses are often transmitted via email. Install and maintain Antivirus and Anti-Spyware software on your computer. 
Update browser software to benefit from the latest security protections. Pay attention to warning messages presented 
through your browser. Browser warning messages may indicate a security threat. When receiving emails including 
links to websites, instead of using the link in the email to get to the website, hand key a known website address (URL) 
for that company into your browser to ensure you are going to a legitimate website.

NEVER verify sensitive personal information requested via email from a company or financial institution such as account 
numbers, social security number, credit card number etc. Any company, credit card company or financial institution you 
do business with, already knows this information and will NEVER ask you to verify this type of personal information by 
email or through a link to a website provided to you through an email.

Q I'd like to know more about the security methods you have implemented. Where can I read more?
A For a more detailed description of the security features in our Online Banking System, please see our 
Online Banking System Security Overview.

Q If I suspect a fraud attempt, what should I do about it?
A If you suspect that you've encountered a fraud attempt, contact Northland Financial at a location near you. 
Or, click on Online Banking System Security Overview, click on Identity Theft Info tab along top of window, click 
on How to report it link on right hand side of window.