Are Your Net Banking Practices Safe ?

From paying bills and transferring funds to opening fixed deposits, internet banking has really made our lives easier. While there were a lot of apprehensions earlier regarding banking online, nowadays, internet banking is highly preferred; more and more people are avoiding those long queues at the bank in favor of internet banking. However, one still needs to observe some precautions to keep them from becoming victims of frauds.

YOUR PASSWORD

The first time that you get access to your net banking account, you will be using the password that is provided by the bank. However, as soon as you log in, change this password to keep your account safe. Then, you must remember to keep changing your password regularly (at least once every 3 months), and keeping it confidential to prevent misuse.

DON’T USE PUBLIC COMPUTERS

As much as you can, you should avoid logging in to your bank account on a public computer like at the cyber café or in a library. Using a crowded place and a public computer increases the chance of your password being traced or even of being seen by someone. If you have no other option but to use a public computer, make sure no one is watching when you enter your password. After that, delete all the temporary files, cache and browsing history after you are done using it.

DON’T SHARE YOUR DETAILS, EVER!

An occurrence that is pretty common these days is people receiving calls from unknown numbers who claim to be calling from the bank. These people then ask for your bank account details, citing some or the other error. One thing that you should understand is that no bank will ever ask you for your confidential information via phone or email. So no matter where the call or email is from, do not give out your login details. Only use your ID and password to login on the bank’s official website and confirm that the URL has ‘https://’ in the beginning.

MAKE REGULAR CHECKS

Though this is just a simple precaution, make sure you check your net banking account after you make any transaction online. Check if the right amount has been deducted from the account. If there are any discrepancies that you notice in the amount, inform the bank immediately.

USE LICENSED ANTI-VIRUS

Viruses can be a hacker’s best friend, so you need to keep your computer free from viruses. Make sure that you use licensed anti-virus software. You might be able to get pirated anti-virus software for free, but they won’t protect your computer from any viruses. Also, keep your software updated while you’re at it.

TYPE YOUR NET BANKING URL

There have been instances where fraudsters have sent emails to people with fraudulent links to fake websites that look exactly like the bank’s website. Once you enter your details on the page, they would be able to access your account. Always type in the URL of your bank’s website, and always check whether you’re at the authentic website or not.

Net banking brings you a number of benefits in terms of ease and comfort, but it is up to you to ensure that you can do your banking in relative safety. Take heed for your peace of mind.