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Security Policy

We Protect Your Security

Southern First is committed to protecting the security of our clients’ information, including when it is transmitted online. We realize that you rely on the Internet for many of your financial needs. The following are some of the ways we ensure the online security of the bank.

Unique User ID and Password

Users are assigned unique User IDs and Passwords. These are designed to prevent unauthorized access to your accounts by confirming your identity and your right to use our systems and access your information.

Data Encryption

Whenever possible, Southern First uses the strongest browser encryption technology available to prohibit unauthorized individuals from intercepting and viewing the information being sent; this is also referred to as a “secure session.”

Firewalls and Activity Logs

Firewalls help protect your account and application information by permitting only specific traffic to pass in and out of Southern First’s systems. We regularly review activity logs to monitor all activity for potential threats.

No Private Information Via Email

Traditional email is not secure, so Southern First does not use it to send private information such as your login, account number, Social Security number, etc. We will not ask our clients to send us confidential information via email.

Timeout and Lock-Out

Access to Southern First’s secure online system is denied or locked after unsuccessful login attempts have occurred. In addition, a timeout feature automatically terminates each user’s session after a prolonged period of inactivity.

Privacy Policy

Federal law requires us to tell you how we collect, share, and protect your personal information. Our privacy policyhas not changed and you may review our policy and practices with respect to your personal information or we will mail you a free copy upon request if you call us at 864-679-9000.


Four Security Checks

Check That Web Pages Are Secure

Before you send information online, make sure the URL begins with “https.” When you see a URL that begins with “https,” you will know your data is being transmitted securely. Your Online Banking information is sent to Southern First in a “secure session” utilizing Secure Socket Layer (SSL) technology, which scrambles or “encrypts” information as it moves between your browser and Southern First’s secure online systems. Also, when you use the secure contact form in Online Banking, your communication is transmitted securely to the bank.

Check Your Email Use

Use secure messaging, when available, to ensure your personal information is safe. You can use secure messaging at Southern First by logging into online banking. Beware of viruses and spyware when opening unsolicited emails and attachments. Never respond to unsolicited emails. Southern First will never ask for personal or account information via email, including passwords, Social Security numbers, PIN information, or card numbers.

Check Your Passwords

Protect Your Passwords…the longer the password, the harder it is to crack. Use at least 10 characters; 12 is ideal for most home users. Mix letters, numbers, and special characters. Try to avoid predictable passwords; such as your name, birthdate, or common words. Don’t use the same password for many accounts. If it’s stolen from you-or from one of the companies you do business with-it can be used to take over your accounts. Don’t share passwords on the phone, in texts or by email. The bank will never send you a message asking for your password. Keep your passwords in a secure place, and out of plain sight.

Check Your Computer Use

Be careful when using public computers—they may not be as safe as your home computer. On your own computer, make sure that your security software is up-to-date to protect your computer and private information. Most security software can update automatically; set yours to do so. If your computer operating system, web browser, or security software is out-of-date, criminals could sneak malware onto your computer and use it to secretly access your accounts, break into other computers, or send spam. Don’t buy security software in response to unexpected pop-up messages or emails; scammers send messages like these to try to get your to buy worthless software, or download malware onto your computer.


Member FDIC

Southern First is a member of the FDIC (Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation). FDIC insurance covers funds in deposit accounts, including checking and savings accounts, money market deposit accounts and certificates of deposit (CDs).

Notice of expiration of the temporary full insurance coverage for noninterest-bearing transaction accounts.

By operation of federal law, beginning January 1, 2013, funds deposited in a noninterest-bearing transaction account (including an Interest on Lawyer Trust Account) no longer will receive unlimited deposit insurance coverage by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC). Beginning January 1, 2013, all of a depositor’s accounts at an insured depository institution, including all noninterest-bearing transaction accounts, will be insured by the FDIC up to the standard maximum deposit insurance amount ($250,000), for each deposit insurance ownership category.

Find out more information about FDIC insurance coverage of noninterest-bearing transaction accounts.

Use a FDIC calculator to determine what balances will be insured.