Your America First mobile banking experience provides you with the same, top-of-the-line protection the credit union harnesses for all of our premier online services. You'll be logged out of mobile banking after a period of inactivity to ensure that if your phone is lost or stolen, your account will remain safe.

What else you can do:

• Lock your phone with a strong passcode.
• Be aware of where your device is at all times.
• When downloading and installing applications, read the permission form and determine if it makes sense for your needs.
• Watch out for fake apps. Criminals can create applications that look similar to a well-known financial institution's program. When in doubt, there are direct links to ours on our Mobile Banking page.

Clean is good

Mobile devices are computers with software that must be up to date, just like your PC, laptop, or tablet.

Security protections are built in and updated on a regular basis and it's wise to enable all the latest. This may require syncing your device with a computer.

• Having mobile security, Web browser, and operating system software is the best defense against viruses, malware, and other threats.

Keep your information safe

Phones can contain lots of personal information. Lost or stolen devices can be used to harm you and, potentially, others. Protect it like you would your computer.

• Use a strong passcode to lock your device.
• Think before you app: Review the privacy policy and understanding what data (location, access to your social networks) your phone can access before you download it.
• Only give your number to people you know and trust and never provide anyone else's without their permission.
• Disable geotagging on your device's camera.

Connect with care

Use common sense when you connect. If you're online through an unsecured or unprotected network, be cautious about the sites you visit and the information you release.

• Get savvy about Wi-Fi hotspots: Watch the type of business you conduct and adjust the security settings on your device to limit access.
• Protect your financial resources: When browsing, check to be sure the sites are security-enabled.
• When in doubt, don't respond. Fraudulent texting, calling, and voicemails are on the rise. Just like email, requests for personal information or immediate action are almost always a scam.

Be careful on the mobile Web

Stay informed about your device. Know what to do if something goes wrong.

• Know how to cell block others.
• Use caution when meeting personally with someone you only know through text messaging.

Take time to be courteous

It is easy to say things via phone or text that you would never say face to face. Maintain the same level of courtesy on the phone as you would in the real world.

• Text to others as you would have them text to you.
• Get permission before taking pictures or videos of other people. Likewise, let them know they need your permission before taking pictures or videos of you.
• Follow this simple three-step rule: Stop. Before you use the Internet on a mobile device, take time to understand the risks and learn how to spot potential problems. Think. Be certain the path is clear ahead. Watch for warning signs and consider how your actions online could impact your safety or your family's. Connect. Enjoy the Internet with greater confidence.

Visit http://www.stopthinkconnect.org for more.

Lost and stolen devices

Smartphones and tablets offer convenience, but they're also easy to lose or steal, which can put your information at risk. Here are some ways you can protect yourself now and in the event you are a victim of loss or theft later:

• Password-protect your phone.
• Enable an automatic screen-locking mechanism when it's not actively engaged.
• Consider using a remote wipe program with the ability to delete any data.
• Keep a record of its make, model, and serial number in case it's stolen.

Traditional online threats

Viruses, malware, and other programs that steal your personal information or financial details can infect mobile devices. Consider installing anti-virus software, back up your data, and keep the copy in a safe and secure location.