Security FAQs

What is a browser?

You’ve probably heard the word, but you might not be entirely sure what it is. In short, it’s how you connect to any website online. The most common browsers are Chrome®, Microsoft Edge® and Safari®, and Summit’s website and online banking work well with all of them.

Why are updates important?

• SECURITY. Older versions of any browser are more vulnerable to viruses, scams and other risks. Updates are designed to ensure the best security.   
• SPEED. Does it take f-o-r-e-v-e-r for things to load? Update your browser to the current version – it can make a big difference.
• EXPERIENCE. Summit’s website and online banking have lots of great tools and features, but you might not be able to use them with an older browser. Don’t miss out! (Plus, an updated browser will help you have a better experience with other sites too).

How do I update my browser?

Summit’s website works well with the three most popular browsers. Just click on the icon that matches yours to see if you need an update.

What happens if my account is compromised?

You will not be liable for any fraud that’s happened with your account and the Summit team will work quickly to take care of any fraudulent activity and make sure your account is secure.

What is Summit doing to keep my data safe?

Keeping your data safe and secure is one of our most important jobs. Here’s how Summit works hard every day to protect your personal information:

• We meet or exceed all industry-recommended safety standards.
• We take a layered approach that creates multiple levels of security and balances safety and usability.
• We’re committed to continuous improvement and regularly evaluate and update our security requirements.
• We stay on top of new technologies and recommendations, then investigate and thoroughly test those that seem like they could help us improve our security.

Can someone hack into my account information through my phone?

Sadly, the short answer is “maybe.” But there are things you can do to make that more difficult.

You’ll find more complete information here, but check out this quick overview:

1. Secure your phone. Enable your lock screen, set a PIN or password, or using your fingerprint to access your phone, will make it harder for hackers to tap into your phone.
2. Change your passwords often.
3. Use multi-factor authentication whenever you can - this means a hacker will have to get through multi layers of security—making it harder to hack into your personal information.
4. Don’t open suspicious emails, links or headlines—even if they’re from someone you know and trust.

When I want to access my account, which is safer — my phone or my computer?

Either one can be just as safe—or just as unsafe.

On Summit’s end, data is data, no matter which device you use to access it.

We store all your financial data on one secure core, encrypt it whenever it’s sent anywhere and transfer all data securely over the Internet.

The difference is on YOUR end.

If you follow our data safety steps from the previous FAQ, and the Wi-Fi tips from the next, you’ll get the same security no matter what device you use to tap into your accounts.

Is it safe to use Wi-Fi?

Wi-Fi is a great way to save on data when you’re out and about. But it’s also a great way for hackers to tap into your personal information. Using Wi-Fi at a Summit branch? We’ve taken all the necessary steps to make sure your connection is secure.

If you’re tapping into Wi-Fi at a coffee shop, hotel, restaurant or store, here’s what the experts recommend:

• Protect your personal information. Don’t use Wi-Fi for anything that requires you to enter a password, user name, your credit card number, Social Security number or similar. Assume that anyone using the same Wi-Fi network COULD be tapping into your information. If you’re accessing data you wouldn’t like to share, you shouldn’t do it over public Wi-Fi.
• Use the right network. Check with staff to make sure you’re using their network. Hackers know people often just click on whatever Wi-Fi network pops up. Verifying which network you’re on doesn’t mean you’re home free, but it’s somewhat safer.
• Read the terms and conditions. We know, it’s a hassle. But so is being hacked. Know how the Wi-Fi provider is going to use your personal info and decide whether using their Wi-Fi is worth it.
• Pick secure websites and apps. When you’re on a website, look for a green padlock in the address bar. Or “https” at the beginning of the website address. The “s” means the website is secure.When you’re using an app, there isn’t a quick cue like an icon or “https” to prove it’s safe. And when you download an app, try to pick companies you’ve heard of. That doesn’t guarantee the app is secure, but it gives you a better shot.

• Use Wi-Fi a lot? Think about installing a VPN (virtual private network) app.
   

Can someone get access to my account number from my mobile app?

Your full account number will never be stored or displayed in the Summit app: At most, you’ll see the last four digits of the account number and the type of account, just so you can tell which account you’re looking at.

But it’s still important to follow the security guidelines listed above to protect your account.

How can Summit be sure I’m the person logging in?

We can’t. Which is why it’s so important to follow the security recommendations listed above and so important not to give your log-in information to anyone else—intentionally or accidentally. Never store your log-in information in the same place as your device (which means the tattered post-it shoved into your wallet or bag has got to go!).