Fraud Prevention for Business

Protect Your Business from Corporate Account Takeover

Corporate account takeover is a form of corporate identity theft where criminals gain control of business bank accounts by stealing online banking credentials. Although there are several methods used to retrieve credentials, the most common is the use of malware to “infect” a company computer. Malware is commonly distributed via email and social networking links, as well as through websites. For businesses with low malware protection support, malware can go unnoticed for weeks or months.

If you believe your company’s account information has been compromised, please report it immediately to our Customer Support Center at 888-292-4037.

How can I protect my business?

There are a number of steps you can take to help safeguard your business bank accounts.

Computer/Online Banking Security

Use tools such as firewalls, anti-spyware, and encryption of laptops and hard drives to protect your network.
Dedicate one computer to online banking and cash management activity. Make sure this computer is not connected to the business network.
Block access on network computers to high-risk websites such as adult entertainment, online gaming, social networking, and personal email.
Do not conduct online banking activities from “free” Wi-Fi spots like airports or internet cafes.

Employee Education

Educate employees on cyber security and email best practices.
Make sure employees know that Origin Bank will never contact them by email or text message requesting them to verify account information or ask for passwords.

Account Security

Require employees to have strong passwords and require they change passwords frequently both on their computers and online banking accounts.
Use dual control for originating and authorizing ACH and wire transactions.
Monitor and reconcile accounts online daily; at a minimum, review pending or recently sent ACH files and wire transfers.

Malware/Viruses

Keep your computer up-to-date by applying software updates (patches) as soon as possible. Pay special attention to "plugins" like Flash, Java, and Acrobat Reader. You may have to apply updates to these items manually. Malware may use outdated versions of these plugins as a "gateway" to infect your computer.
Install and configure a quality software security suite, and keep it updated. Be sure that the product contains multiple protection methods, including anti-virus, anti-spyware, and web protection. Keep in mind that most products are subscriptions and need to be kept valid. While important, don’t rely on anti-virus security software as the sole protection for your computer.
Don’t ignore warnings from security software. Take the recommended actions (if offered).
Don’t log onto your computer as an "administrator." Many modern operating systems allow you to use your computer as a "limited" user, and selectively increase permissions as needed. This may prevent unwanted software from slipping in without your approval.
Consider using a dedicated computer for financial needs, and keep that computer up-to-date and secured. Don't use the dedicated computer for other internet purposes, like email and casual web surfing.
Only install reputable, legal versions of software on your computer.
Don’t change computer or internet browser settings to values that weaken security.