Free tools Windows power users keep installed

One-click scans. No signup required.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

To secure an online bank account, use the bank’s official app or website to enable its strongest supported sign-in method, turn on useful transaction alerts, and review activity regularly. Passkeys and security keys are not supported by every bank; if they are unavailable, an authenticator app is generally preferable to text or email codes. Alerts provide early notice, but they do not authenticate you or guarantee that a transaction will be stopped.

Start in your bank’s official security settings

Sign in through a known route: the bank’s official app or a website address you already trust. Open the profile, account, or security settings and look for “two-factor authentication,” “two-step verification,” or “multi-factor authentication.” Services use different labels, and the available choices vary by bank and device; follow your institution’s current instructions. CISA lists these as common MFA labels.

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds a second kind of proof beyond a password. The factors can be something you know, such as a password; something you possess, such as a phone or security key; or something inherent to you, such as a biometric. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) says phishing-resistant methods based on the Web Authentication standard are especially important for protecting against credential phishing. Read the CFPB circular.

Choose the strongest sign-in method your bank supports

Compare the bank’s options by how well they resist phishing, whether they depend on cellular service or SMS, which devices they work with, and how you can recover access if you lose a phone or key. A method is only useful if your bank supports it and you can use it consistently.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
#1 Best Overall
Sale
Elebase USB to USB C Adapter for iPhone 18 Pro Max,USBC Car Charger Adapter
  • Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
  • Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
  • Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
  • Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
  • 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.

Passkeys and other WebAuthn methods

If the bank offers a passkey or another Web Authentication-based method, consider enabling it and follow the bank’s instructions for device enrollment and account recovery. Passkey availability and recovery support are bank-specific; check the institution’s current settings and official help pages rather than assuming the option exists.

Authenticator apps

If an authenticator app is offered, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) recommends it over text or email codes when those are the alternatives. The app generates verification codes on your device, so they are not susceptible to SIM-swap attacks in the same way as SMS codes. Keep the phone and any recovery method secure.

Rank #2
Sale
Anker USB-C Hub, 5-in-1 USB Hub for Laptops, 4K HDMI Multiport Adapter
  • 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
  • 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
  • Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
  • 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
  • What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.

Text or email codes

If the bank offers only a text or email code, using that second factor is better than having no second factor, according to the FTC. Never read out or forward an unexpected verification code to someone who contacts you. A caller or texter asking for a code may be trying to access your account. FTC guidance explains how to use two-factor authentication.

Physical security keys

A physical key may connect through USB or NFC, but buy one only after confirming that your bank supports security keys and that the key’s connector works with your devices. CISA names YubiKey as an example in its business-oriented MFA guidance; neither that example nor the key’s form factor confirms compatibility with a particular bank. See CISA’s MFA guidance.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Rank #3
Sale
Anker USB C Hub, 7in1 Multi-Port USB Adapter, 4K@60Hz USBC to HDMI Splitter
  • Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
  • Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
  • Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
  • Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
  • What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.

Protect recovery options and trusted-device settings

Follow the bank’s recovery instructions before you need them. Keep access to the email account and phone number used for account recovery secure, and understand what the bank requires if you lose a device or key. If the bank offers a “remember this device” or similar option, use it only on a personal device—not a public or shared computer. The FTC cautions against saving a login on a public computer.

Set transaction alerts you will act on

In the bank’s alert or notification settings, enable the activity notices that matter to you. Depending on what the institution offers, useful triggers may include:

Rank #4
Sale
UGREEN USB to USB C Adapter Combo 4-Pack, 10Gbps USB C Converter Space Gray
  • Dual Converters, Infinite Potential:Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
  • Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
  • Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
  • Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
  • Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
  • Transactions above an amount you choose
  • Deposits
  • Large card charges
  • Low balances
  • Other unusual or risk-related account activity

Choose thresholds that surface activity you would want to investigate without creating so many notifications that you start ignoring them. CFPB and FFIEC materials describe alerts based on transaction size or risk parameters, while CFPB consumer guidance gives examples such as deposits, large charges, and low balances. Review the CFPB/FFIEC guidance and the CFPB’s online and mobile banking tips.

An alert is an early-notice layer, not an authentication method or a guarantee that the bank will block a transaction. If a notice looks unfamiliar, open the bank’s official app or type its known web address instead of following a link in the message. Then contact the bank using a verified channel.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Best Value
Sale
Anker USB C Hub, 5-in-1 USBC to HDMI Splitter with 4K Display
  • 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
  • Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
  • Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
  • HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
  • What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

Review activity and respond to anything unfamiliar

Check recent and pending account activity regularly through the official app or website. A pending debit-card amount can differ from the final posted amount, so do not assume a pending figure is final. If you see suspicious or erroneous activity, report it promptly using the bank’s official app, website, or phone number. The CFPB’s banking tips discuss monitoring activity and pending debit-card amounts.

For broader account protection, use a unique, strong password and do not reuse it for other sites. The FTC’s account-protection guidance covers passwords and other ways to protect accounts.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.