In the wake of Banks' emphasizing on protecting against cyber security breaches, it's imperative for bank customers' to understand possible cyber threats and ways to prevent them. Protecting financial transactions from cyberattacks is crucial for safeguarding sensitive information and preventing financial loss. Some key measures to be undertaken to safeguard the funds or securities lying in the Bank account(s):
Use Strong and Unique Passwords: Create strong and unique passwords for every online banking account. Avoid using easily guessable information like birthdates, names, surnames or common words.
Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Activate MFA wherever offered by the bank. MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring multiple forms of verification, such as a password, facsimile, security question, or biometric scan, to access the bank account.
Beware of Phishing Attempts: Always remain alert for unsolicited emails, text messages, Interactive Voice Response (IVR) or phone calls that request personal or financial information. Avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading attachments from unknown sources. Check veracity of communications by contacting the bank directly through official channels.
Secure Devices: Keep devices used for banking transactions, such as laptops, computers, smartphones, and tablets, secure by installing and regularly updating antivirus software and security patches. Use device encryption, facsimile, and biometric authentication for enhanced protection.
Regularly Monitor Accounts: Make it a habit to review account statements and transaction histories for any unauthorized or suspicious transactions. Report any discrepancies or fraudulent activity to the bank immediately.
Use Secure Networks: Avoid conducting financial transactions over public Wi-Fi networks or unsecured connections. Use a secure and private network, such as a password-protected Wi-Fi network or a virtual private network (VPN), when accessing online banking services.
Update Software: Keep operating systems, web browsers, and banking apps up to date with the latest security patches and updates. Enable automatic updates whenever possible to ensure timely protection against known vulnerabilities.
Account Alerts: Configure account alerts to receive notifications for any normal or unusual activities, such as large transactions, account logins from unfamiliar locations, or changes to account settings. Receipt of timely alerts can help detect potential fraud early.
Not to share Personal Information: Avoid sharing sensitive personal or financial information, such as account numbers, PAN, DoB, passwords, or PINs, with anyone through email, text messages, or phone calls. Never share personal information on any of the social media platforms.
Educate Yourself: Stay informed about common cyber threats and fraud schemes those are targeted at bank customers. Educate yourself on cybersecurity best practices and regularly review the bank's security guidelines and recommendations by visiting banks' website.
Use Official Banking Channels: Only access online banking services through official banking websites or mobile apps downloaded from well-known app stores. Avoid clicking on links in emails or text messages that claim to be from the bank.
Report Suspicious Activity: If you suspect that your account has been compromised or if you encounter any suspicious activity, immediately report to the bank's customer support or fraud department the incident and seek help.
By following security steps suggested above, bank customers can mitigate the risk of falling prey to fraudsters, scamsters, cyberattacks and protect their financial information and transactions from unauthorized access and fraud.
Please keep watching this space for more updates on the various types of frauds or cyberattacks taking place in the digital era!
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