Two Years Ago in Online Banking Report

In , we took a look at the issue of security. Both from the standpoint of making your program less prone to fraud; and how to leverage security concerns in your marketing. Our report, Security Concerns as a Marketing Tool, discussed building a trustworthy brand and detailed eight product features that could alleviate consumer fears of banking online. We also outlined a three-level password system to guard against unwanted account withdrawals.

In light of the recent intrusion into S1’s data center, it might be time to take another look at how you deal with security, both in your authentication procedures and in your Website copy. For ideas, we recommend reading issue 48; most of the ideas are still very appropriate today.

                     OBR, May, 1999

Six Years Ago in Online Banking Report

Our June, 1995 report entitled, Web Mania was our first in-depth feature on Web site design. The 12-part template included an optional account access module. While the template would still work today, account access is no longer optional for most financial institutions.

We also looked at the Web sites of two leading banks, Wells Fargo, which was then the only bank in the world with online account access; and Toronto Dominion, which was several years ahead of its time with financial market commentary updated daily.

                     June 1995