Security Tips

There has been a great deal of press over the past several months regarding attempts by unauthorized individuals to gain access to bank accounts and other sensitive customer data. These attempts can take a variety of forms, including one known as "phishing" whereby individuals send emails claiming to be a legitimate company. The emails typically request private information, such as bank account or login information, that can subsequently be used for purposes of fraud or other misconduct.

EMS will never ask for password information, bank account information, driver's license numbers or debit card details from you by phone, fax, email, or regular mail. Personal credit/debit card information will only be requested at the time of account setup for the purposes of establishing a preauthorized payment schedule. If the above information is requested of you, refuse to provide it and contact EMS immediately at 800-615-1330.

Other methods of obtaining sensitive data exist, such as the use of viruses that scan individuals PC's for sensitive information and transmit the results back to a central location.

In these days of increasingly sophisticated attempts by individuals to unlawfully obtain sensitive information, it is important that you take the necessary precautions to protect access to this information. This includes protecting access to your merchant account.

We advise the following:

1. Do not share your login information (Login Serial Number, Username and Password) with anyone.

2. If you are using Internet Explorer 5+, Netscape 6+ or AOL 5+, ensure that the "memorize password function" or "auto-complete" is disabled (for information on how to disable this function please see the information at the bottom of this message).

3. Never walk away from your computer without properly signing out of the site and closing your browser.

4. If you are using a computer that is not your own, always end your current session and close the browser.

5. Do not store your login details in any file on your PC or in any insecure location offline.

6. Install an anti-virus software package, ensure that the virus profiles are updated regularly and perform regular virus scans.

7. Install and use a personal firewall on your PC.

8. Review your account daily for signs of unusual activity.

9. Turn on the Merchant Email notification so that you are notified of all transaction through your account.

10. Enable Address Verification Service (AVS) and force the use of Card Verification Value (CVV).

11. Create a unique password that is difficult for others to guess.

12. Install all recommended security "patches" (updates) for your Internet software (e.g. web browser).

13. Avoid downloading programs and software from sources you are not familiar with and do not download or use pirated software. These programs may contain viruses or other malicious code that could cause harm to your computer or be used to steal private or confidential information such as account numbers and passwords.

14. Purchase/download anti-Spyware software, ensure that the Spyware profiles are updated regularly and perform regular Spyware scans. 15. If you are using a wireless Internet connection, be sure that your connection is secure.