Skip to main content
_FB_2018-Icons-finalized-cleaned-up_new_FB_2018-Icons-finalized-cleaned-up_newGroup 9
Back
Scroll to top

Why Having the Latest is the Greatest: Update Your Browser Today

Personal Finances 2 min read

Ready to talk to an expert?

We’ve got a secret weapon in the fight against the fraudsters who are trying to steal the data off your computer or mobile phone: having an up-to-date web browser.

It might seem simple, but by making sure you’re using the latest and supported versions of your favorite web window—Chrome, Internet Explorer, Firefox, etc. or Safari for iPhone users—you’re doing some seriously heavy lifting in protecting your information.

As we’ve mentioned before, having the most up-to-date version of your web browser ensures 128-bit encryption capability. This feature will prevent anyone from “eavesdropping” on your data as it travels between you and your financial institution or your customers.

When your browser or operating system is out of date, critical security patches aren’t being provided by Microsoft, Apple, or other companies—leaving you vulnerable to hackers and identity thieves.

Seek Out HTTPS

Once you’ve updated your browser, make sure you’re visiting secure versions of sites, marked by “https” vs the common “http.”

This is quickly becoming an important point of differentiation on the web. In fact, Google will be changing their search algorithm in July to help consumers avoid any unsecure or questionable sites and directing them away from “http” pages.

Learn More About Staying Safe

Updating your browser is just the first of many important steps to take to keep your information secure while you’re using the web. Check out this additional list of 7 handy tips for protecting your identity.

Ready to talk to an expert?

Share:
First Bank’s Good To Know Logo
Sign up for our newsletter and be the first to know about new tips, insights, and products from First Bank.
First Bank may use this email address to contact you about products, services, and promotions.

You may be interested in...

Image for tile. The Taxman Cometh Do you have a stack of forms sitting on your counter that you’re dreading sorting through? If so, you might have FOTM, or Fear of the Tax Man. It can often hit around February or March, and is incredibly common. One way of dealing with FOTM is by getting your finances ready so that when it comes time to file, you feel a little better. Here are our tips and to-dos to help you prepare. Start Early (If You Can) Ideally, you’ve already started this process, but if you’re reading this and haven’t started pulling your tax information together, don’t panic. Keep it together: Make sure you keep all the tax documents you receive together so they’re easy to find and reference when it’s time to file. If you are getting help preparing your taxes, this will also make the process much smoother. If you have a business, make sure you keep those expenses separate. Review your filing status: Your filing status can affect how much you owe in taxes each year, and whether or not you have to file at all. If you’re unsure about your filing status, the IRS has a tool for helping you figure it out. Look back at last year’s return: Think about what areas (if any) were frustrating or caused you trouble. Prepare ahead of time this year for how you might make it easier for yourself. Deduce your deductibles: Track your charitable donations, childcare expenses, any home improvements you made, and any other deductibles you may have. You can use our mobile or online banking to help track these. Get it done. Whether you file on your own or use a tax preparer, make sure you get everything in by July 15 or file an extension! Check out the IRS tips page for links and articles that may further help and guide you. Remember, FOTM is real, but if you’re prepared, you can alleviate the fear. Please note, First Bank does not offer direct tax advice. We recommend you speak to a professional if you have any questions about preparing your personal or business tax forms. 2 min read
First Bank Loans Between banks and online lenders, you have a lot of options to choose from when you need a loan. But not all loans are created equal, and First Bank loans are a step above the rest. If you are in need of a loan, visit your local First Bank. We offer a variety of loan options, from personal loans to mortgage loans, with highly competitive rates. Loans Available at First Bank First Bank loans come in a variety of forms, each with competitive rates and flexible terms: Personal loans. Gain instant borrowing power with a personal credit line or use the equity in your home to secure a home equity loan. Business loans. Use a credit line, lump-sum business loan, or construction loan to finance your business. Credit cards. Take advantage of no annual fees and competitive interest rates to complete personal or business transactions today and pay for them tomorrow. Mortgages. Conventional, government, jumbo, commercial, and professional loans are all possible with a First Bank loan. Applying for a First Bank Loan Applying for a loan is simple with First Bank. For a business loan, talk to one our experts during a small business financial consultation. An application for a mortgage loan can be filled out online. For personal loans or credit cards, just contact your nearest First Bank and speak to one of our associates. Whether it’s building a business or moving into your dream home, a First Bank loan can help you with some of life’s biggest purchases. Loans subject to credit approval. ——— Sources: Investopedia: http://www.investopedia.com/terms/o/overdraft-protection.asp?ad=dirN&qo=investopediaSiteSearch&qsrc=0&o=40186 Investopedia: http://www.investopedia.com/terms/i/interest.asp?ad=dirN&qo=investopediaSiteSearch&qsrc=0&o=40186 2 min read
What Are 20-Year Mortgage Rates? There are various factors to consider when purchasing a home, including how to finance it. Some consumers may opt for a mortgage with a shorter term while others find it beneficial to extend the mortgage. It may be best to look for a 20-year mortgage for a lower price without putting yourself in debt until retirement. First, let us help you answer the question, “What are 20-year mortgage rates?” What are 20-year Mortgage Rates? 20-year mortgage rates are an alternative to 15 and 30-year mortgage rates, the most common types of mortgage loans. 15, 20, and 30-year mortgages are usually offered as fixed-rate mortgages, meaning the interest rate you pay never changes. A 20-year fixed mortgage rate typically allows you to build equity faster and pay off your home in less time than other longer-term mortgage loans. They also typically have lower interest rates than other mortgage options because the term of the loan is shorter. Benefits of a Fixed-Rate Mortgage First Bank offers conventional fixed-rate mortgages, available in terms of 15, 20, and 30 years. There are many benefits to a First Bank fixed-rate mortgage, including: Predictable monthly P&I payments Protection from rising interest rates for the life of the loan Sound investment for long-term home owners What is an Adjustable Rate Mortgage? First Bank also offers adjustable rate mortgages, or ARMs. ARMs have interest rates that change periodically. When the rate changes, your monthly payment will either increase or decrease depending on whether the rates rise or fall. First Bank’s ARMs are available for 30-year amortization schedules, with initial periods of 3, 5, or 7 years. Contact First Bank Today Whether you’re buying a home or interested in refinancing, First Bank has a loan option for you. If you are still have questions about mortgage rates or conventional loans, contact the First Bank Mortgage Help Center, or visit a First Bank branch near you. 2 min read
First Bank logo
Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognizing you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website are the most popular and useful.