OCBC treats online security with utmost importance and issues this security alert on Spywares and Adwares so that you will be better informed on how to protect yourself when using the Internet.

Recent news on Spywares reported that some companies are promising faster internet access if the user channels his web communication through these companies' servers and/or installs special programs onto their computer. In doing so, these companies are provided with opportunities to monitor your web behavior. Some of these companies are even able to decrypt, thus exposing your online communication including encrypted information containing- confidential details such as user ID's, passwords, account particulars -keyed in even at secured websites!

At OCBC, we are committed to provide the highest level of security to our customers. Hence , we strongly advise that you do not access iOCBC Internet Trading System through such web services or have any such dubious computer software are installed in your computer, which can be malicious.

What are Spywares & Adwares?

Spyware is software that gathers user information while on the Internet and reports them to third parties. Adware is a form of Spyware used by marketers to track Internet user’s surfing habits and interests for the purpose of customizing future advertising material. Adware can monitor information such as the type of sites visited, nature of articles read or the types of pop-ups and banners a user clicks on. This information collected is then used to customize future advertisements targeted to the user, or can be sold to a third party for the same purpose.

SpywareandAdware, not only slows down the system performance of a computer. It also uses memory and system resources that can cause system crashes and instability.

Such programs may also have the ability to monitor keystrokes, scan files on your hard drive, change the default home page of your browser, and relay information about your web visits to unauthorised/disreputable third parties who can potentially manipulate the information.

Hence, Spyware and Adware programs are considered as potential forms of identity theft as they has the ability to invade your online privacy by gaining access to your passwords, PINs, credit card details and other personal transaction information.

How can you protect yourself?

There are products available that can help you detect, monitor and remove Spyware from your computer. Many complete computer security software suites now come standard with a feature for Spyware detection and removal.

With the proper precautions, you can help protect your OCBC accounts and personal information from harmful programs:

1. Be wary of banners, ads and pop-ups while surfing the Internet. Refrain from clicking on them no matter how enticing they may appear.
2. Avoid downloading programs and email attachments from unknown sources. Downloads may contain hidden programs that can compromise your computer’s security. Also, never download or open email attachments from unknown senders.
3. Keep your computer operating system and Web browser current. If your computer is more than five years old, its operating system (e.g. Windows 98, OS 7 etc.) may not offer the same level of protection as newer systems. System manufacturers such as Microsoft and Apple provide frequent updates to help make your system more secure.  You may check out their websites: http://www.microsoft.com/security or http://www.apple.com/support/security/
4. Install and update your computer with the latest anti-virus software. Commercially available virus protection software helps reduce the risk of contracting computer viruses that can compromise your security. These programs offer the protection against the latest threats – provided you continuously keep the program updated.
5. Install up-to-date anti Spyware program to regularly scan your computer, locate, quarantine and delete any Spyware/ Adware in your computer Review terms and conditions when you install free programs or subscribe to services from the Internet.
6. Recommended Password Management
   • Internet Trading Password must be kept confidential at all times and not be divulged to anyone
   • Change your Internet Trading Password on a regular basis
   • Password should not be based on user-id, personal telephone number, birthday or other personal information
   • Password must be memorized and not be recorded anywhere
   • The same password should not be used for different websites, applications or services, particularly when they relate to different entities