A new report released by the University of Michigan researchers found that 75% of online banking sites surveyed included flaws serious security that could endanger users. The researchers found that 214 sites assessed bank :.
47% placed secure login boxes on insecure pages
55% of sales contact information and safety tips on secure pages.
Some banks use social security numbers or email addresses as user IDs.
28% did not specify a policy on passwords, or allow weak passwords.
passwords or statements 31% e-mail to customers.
30% redirect customers to a site outside the bank's domain for certain
without warning transactions.
Some experts in the information security field are questioning the report's conclusions that the research was conducted in 2006 and not published until 2008. The gap of nearly two years means that many of these questions have probably been taken into account in the meantime. There is also a debate on the quality of the research methodology used.
That being said, it is always a good idea to know exactly how sensitive data you share on the Internet is protected. Its a good idea to review the privacy policies and conditions of a website where you submit sensitive personal information so that you understand how this information is used and protected.
Internet security software can help users identify and block suspicious Web sites. In addition, these software to avoid spam, viruses and phishing attacks. Read our guide to Internet security software vendors for more information.