Online banking is great. I highly recommend it. But if you aren’t careful to keep your computer secure, getting hacked can turn your online banking session into a nightmare.

OddJob Trojan is the latest in malware and yet another reason to beef up your computer’s security. OddJob hijacks online banking sessions, keeping users’ accounts open after they think they’ve quit. Hackers can then access the open account to make fraudulent transactions.

When your computer’s security is lax, you’re vulnerable to malware or malicious software. An old, outdated, or unsupported browser, operating system, or antivirus program leaves you open to a virus designed to steal your sensitive personal data.

Are you seeing a theme here? Get new, up-to-date operating systems, browsers, and antivirus programs. If you use a PC, I’d strongly recommend Windows 7 with Internet Explorer 9, Firefox 4, or Chrome. All four can be set to update critical security patches and software updates automatically.

I recommend paying for the latest in antivirus protection. If your software license has expired, pay for a new one. If you use a free antivirus program, upgrade to a paid version. You should do this because free antivirus software relies on manual settings rather than automatic scans and updates.

The OddJob Trojan slipped past antivirus software. Keeping your computer’s security updated with the latest definitions is the best way to add layers of protection.

Robert Siciliano, personal security expert contributor to Just Ask Gemalto, discusses online banking security on CBS Boston. Disclosures