Frequently Asked Questions

Malware or malicious software is used by criminals and hackers to take control of a computer for such purposes as stealing sensitive information, interfering with the normal operation of the computer or selling useless software or other services. A computer can become “infected” by malware through clicking on attachments to phishing emails, loading infected CDs or flash drives on to the computer or clicking on links that take you to infected web sites. The technology industry uses several terms for specific types of malware, including “viruses”, “worms”, “trojan horses”, ”spyware”, “adware” and “key loggers”. The best steps to take in preventing your computer from being infected by malware are to install antivirus software from a reputable vendor and keep your antivirus, operating system and browser software up to date.

Regulation E is a federal banking regulation that provides protection for consumers when they report fraudulent, unauthorized transactions occurring on their bank accounts through electronic channels. The regulation covers bank accounts owned by consumers and used primarily for personal, family and household purposes. It applies to electronic transfers such as ATM deposits and withdrawals, Visa debit card purchases of merchant goods and services by signature or PIN, direct deposits, preauthorized payments , and similar electronic transactions. It covers purchases made over the Internet using a debit card or a checking or savings bank account number, as well as other types of online banking transactions.

For the protections that apply when consumers report suspicious or fraudulent electronic transactions, please see the “Electronic Funds Transfer” section of the Consumer Account Disclosure and Agreement.