Citibank Online Security

• privacy

• citibank.com

Spyware

"Spyware" is software that collects information on what you do on-line with or without your consent. In most cases, this software sends information back to marketing companies so that they can better target advertisements to you. It is usually stored in your PC when you download free software, games, screensavers or subscribing to free online services from the Web.

In some cases, you may have even consented to have tracking software installed on your computer when you accept the terms and conditions when downloading free software, games, screensavers or subscribing to free online services. Usually the information sent is related to general marketing information such as spending habits.

However, some programs are capable of retrieving sensitive personal information like your personal banking details such as card and bank account numbers and PINs.

Citibank recommends that you take measures to ensure you do not have spyware installed on any PC used for online banking. Such spyware or tracking services may not have developed privacy policies or may have a disregard for your privacy. Citibank cannot ensure the proper use and treatment of your confidential personal information by these third parties.

How do I remove spyware?
Spyware can be removed by using anti-spyware programs such as Lavasoft Ad-aware and Spybot – Search and Destroy.

How do I minimize my exposure to spyware, and maintain the security and confidentiality of banking online?

•	Avoid sites that offer free online services games, free screensavers, Internet accelerators and peer-to-peer file-sharing programs.
•	Never blindly accept the default installation settings and terms and conditions of new software installation or subscription of online services.
•	Use an anti spy-ware program to check your computer regular for spy-ware and other parasites.
•	Install anti-virus and firewall software on your computer, and keep it up to date.
•	Do not download anything from any source that you cannot trust or do not understand.
•	Delete any suspicious emails and don’t open suspicious attachments even if they appear to be from someone you know.
•	Disconnect your computer from the Internet when not in use.
•	Refrain from banking online on a public/shared computer.
•	Keep track of your financial statements. Watch out for unauthorized transactions and withdrawals.
•	Subscribe to the Citibank Alerts service at local Citibank site to be alerted of online transactions related to your accounts.

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