Support of Internet Explorer 8 (IE8) for Online Banking

We would like to take this opportunity to bring an important issue to your attention.

Microsoft has discontinued official support for both Internet Explorer 8 and Windows XP as of April 8, 2020. Internet Explorer 8 is the most recent website browser offered by Microsoft for the Windows XP operating system. Newer versions of Internet Explorer are available, but will not run on Windows XP. Both Internet Explorer 8 and Windows XP security will degrade in time without ongoing Microsoft support. Third-party Internet browsers can provide support for the latest websites and security, but will not necessarily improve the security of Windows XP.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Bank discontinuing use of IE8 for Online Banking?

No. As an end-user you will still be able to log-in to Online Banking. You may experience limited functionality or a visibly altered user interface. IE8 is severely limited in its ability to support modern websites and online security. We will not block IE8 users from accessing Online Banking at this time however we may need to block IE8 in the future if significant risks are identified.

What are my options?

The best option is to consider upgrading to a newer operating system with support of newer Internet browsers, security patches and updates. We understand this option may not be economical for every customer. Quality anti-virus and firewalls can protect against some of the security issues with Windows XP and IE8. You may also be able to benefit from a non-Microsoft Internet browser.

If I continue to use IE8, what precautions should I take?

We recommend all our customers use active anti-virus software and a software or hardware firewall. Both should be checked for updates on a regular basis. Some non-Microsoft browsers you may consider that support modern security measures are Google’s Chrome (https://www.google.com/chrome/browser) and Mozilla’s Firefox (https://www.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/new) among others.

Why is this important?

First South Bank partners with a developer who helps us create and maintain our online banking system. Because of the limitations of Internet Explorer 8, we will no longer be able to fully support that Internet browser. For the immediate future, IE8 users will not be prevented from accessing online banking resources, but the experience may be degraded.

What if I do not use my Windows XP/IE8 for online banking?

We recommend you consider all of the interactions you may conduct with IE8, and if any of those involve non-public information, we would ask that you consider more secure options.

What if I have questions, who may I contact?

If you have additional questions, please FSB Online Banking at 1-888-993-7664 during normal business hours.