Security Center

Client Advisory: Protecting Your Devices for Banking Online

Keeping your smartphone, tablet, or computer secure is just as important as locking your front door. The following recommendations—drawn from leading financial industry practices—will help you safeguard your personal data and accounts whenever you access Hanover Bank’s online or mobile services.

Phishing Scams & Social Engineering

Spotting Scams:

  • Red Flags: Urgency (“act now”), unexpected requests for money or credentials, unusual payment methods (gift cards, crypto), or suspicious attachments/links.
  • Common Tactics:
  • Phishing (email): “Verify your account” links or fake attachments.
  • Vishing (phone): Caller ID spoofed as the bank asking for codes.
  • SMiShing (text): Suspicious alerts with short links.
  • Defense: Type known web addresses directly, never click links in unsolicited messages, and hang up on suspicious callers.

Common Scams to Avoid:

  • Bank Imposters: Fraudsters ask you to “protect your funds” by wiring money.
  • Family Emergencies (“Grandparent Scam”): Fake calls demanding urgent help.
  • Romance & Companionship Schemes: Online “relationships” that request money.
  • Tech Support / IRS Threats: Demands for remote access or payments.
  • QR Code Traps: Fake parking/menu codes redirect to phishing sites.

Remember: Our bank will never ask for your PIN, one-time passcode, or request that you send money to “verify” a transaction.

Ransomware Protection

How It Reaches You:

  • Phishing emails/texts with malicious attachments.
  • Social media links with fake offers.
  • Outdated or unpatched software.
  • Fake tech support pop-ups.

Six Ways to Protect Yourself:

  • Turn on automatic updates for OS, browser, and banking apps.
  • Use long, unique passphrases + two-factor authentication.
  • Back up files following the 3-2-1 rule (3 copies, 2 media, 1 offline).
  • Hover over links before clicking; delete unexpected attachments.
  • Run reputable antivirus/anti-malware.
  • Lock devices when unattended and disable unused remote access.

If Attacked:

  • Disconnect the device from the internet immediately.
  • Use a clean device to check your accounts.
  • Call the bank to freeze suspicious activity.
  • Report to FBI IC3 (ic3.gov).
  • Don’t pay until a trusted IT professional has assessed recovery options.

Senior Online Banking Security

Older adults are increasingly targeted by cybercriminals.

What to Watch For:

  • Scams: Emergency calls (“grandchild in trouble”), romance schemes, fake tech support, phishing/vishing attempts.
  • Weak Account Security: Reusing short passwords or writing them down.
  • Out-of-Date Devices: Old systems without updates or antivirus.
  • Unsecured Connections: Public Wi-Fi or routers with default passwords.
  • Oversharing Online: Too much personal detail on social media.

Protections:

  • Use strong, unique passphrases and MFA.
  • Enable auto updates and antivirus software.
  • Bank only on private Wi-Fi or mobile hotspots.
  • Review statements and alerts regularly.
  • Add a trusted contact with your bank.

For Caregivers:

  • Help set up password managers, MFA, and updates.
  • Discuss scams openly with loved ones.
  • Plan ahead with durable powers of attorney.

Device Security

Secure the Device Itself:

  • Use a strong unlock method (complex passcode, fingerprint, or facial recognition).
  • Enable full device encryption.
  • Erase all data with a factory reset before selling or recycling devices.

Keep Software Current:

  • Install updates immediately; they patch vulnerabilities.
  • Enable automatic updates for apps and operating systems.
  • Run up-to-date antivirus/anti-malware software.

Safe Usage Practices:

  • Download apps only from Apple App Store or Google Play.
  • Audit app permissions regularly.
  • Avoid public Wi-Fi; if necessary, use your hotspot or a VPN.
  • Turn off Bluetooth when not in use.

Authentication Security (Passwords & MFA)

  • Create unique 13+ character passphrases—avoid birthdays, names, or sequential numbers.
  • Never reuse passwords; use a reputable password manager.
  • Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) on all banking, email, and investment accounts.
  • Store recovery codes securely and never share one-time passcodes.

Quick Reference Checklist

Keep all devices and antivirus software updated

Use MFA for online banking

Back up important files offline

Review account alerts and statements weekly

Verify all payment requests with a known phone number

Share these tips with family—fraud prevention is a team effort

The information presented in this Hanover Bank Security Center Guide (the “Guide”) is provided by Hanover Bank (“the Bank,” “we,” “our,” or “us”) for general, educational purposes only. By accessing, downloading, or using the Guide or any related materials on this website, you acknowledge and agree to the following terms:

  1. No Professional, Legal, or Regulatory Advice
    The Guide is not intended to constitute—and should not be relied on as—legal, regulatory, accounting, financial planning, or cybersecurity consulting advice. Circumstances vary, and you should consult qualified professionals or advisors who are familiar with your particular situation before acting on any information contained herein.
  2. Information “As Is” and “As Available”
    All content is offered “as is” and “as available,” without representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, including—but not limited to—warranties of accuracy, completeness, timeliness, non infringement, merchantability, or fitness for a particular purpose. Although the Bank endeavors to keep the Guide current, threats, technologies, and best practices evolve rapidly; we cannot guarantee that the material is error free, complete, or up to date at the moment you read it.
  3. User Responsibility and Risk
    Implementing any recommendation from the Guide is entirely at your discretion and risk. You remain solely responsible for evaluating the suitability of the information for your devices, networks, and personal or business circumstances, and for taking your own precautions to ensure that any chosen measures achieve your desired level of protection.
  4. Limitation of Liability
    To the fullest extent permitted by law, the Bank, its affiliates, officers, employees, agents, and licensors will not be liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, consequential, special, exemplary, punitive, or other damages—including loss of data, loss of profits, or business interruption—arising out of or relating to your use of, or inability to use, the Guide or any linked materials, even if we have been advised of the possibility of such damages.
  5. Third Party Links and References
    The Guide may reference or link to third party websites, products, or services solely for convenience. The Bank does not control, endorse, guarantee, or assume responsibility for any third party content, security measures, privacy policies, or practices. Visiting such sites or using such products is at your own risk, and you should review the applicable terms and policies of those third parties.
  6. No Guarantee of Security or Fraud Prevention
    Following the suggestions in the Guide can reduce risk, but it cannot eliminate it. Cybersecurity is influenced by factors beyond the Bank’s control—including your personal vigilance, device configurations, and actions of malicious actors. The Bank does not warrant that implementation of any recommendation will prevent fraud, unauthorized access, or loss.
  7. Changes to the Guide or Disclaimer
    We reserve the right to modify, update, or withdraw the Guide—and to amend this Disclaimer—at any time without prior notice. Your continued use of the Guide after any changes become effective constitutes acceptance of those changes.
  8. Governing Law
    This Disclaimer and any disputes relating to the Guide are governed by the laws of the State of New York, without regard to its conflict of laws principles, and any legal action shall be brought exclusively in the state or federal courts located within New York State.
  9. Contact Information
    If you have questions about the Guide, encounter suspicious activity, or believe your account or personal information has been compromised, please contact our Internet Security Center 24 /7 at 877.548.8880.

By viewing, downloading, or otherwise using the Guide, you confirm that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by this Disclaimer. If you do not agree, please do not use the Guide or rely on its contents.

Need Help?

If you suspect fraud or notice suspicious activity, Our Security Center is here for you 24/7 at 877.548.8880.

By staying alert and following these best practices, you can bank online with confidence—anytime, anywhere.