In today's world, digital devices are more than just a tool for communication, it is a camera, photo album, gaming console and also a bank. It is easy to forget how many dangers lurk out there and make our devices an easy target for scammers and hackers.
Stay safe with these everyday behaviours to keep you safe.
1. Use Unique Passwords
Do not use the same password across your online accounts as this opens the risk of cybercriminals being able to access all of your accounts easily. Ideally, you should change passwords frequently, always using strong ones that include uppercase, lowercase, numerical and special characters.
2. Update Your Mobile Apps
It doesn’t take long, and if you use background updates it’ll happen without you even noticing it. But you need to do it – and regularly. App updates typically include security updates to stay a step ahead of cybercriminals.
3. Avoid Public WiFi (Even If It’s Free)
As cybersecurity firm Kaspersky explains, “The same features that make free Wi-Fi hotspots desirable for consumers make them desirable for hackers; namely, that it requires no authentication to establish a network connection.” If you’re going to use public WiFi instead of your own mobile data, at least use a VPN to create a layer of protection.
4. Protect Your Device
It’s a good habit for your privacy in general, and a great habit for secure online banking. Install antivirus software on your laptop. Invest in a screen privacy filter for your phone. Enable biometric and password protection on your device. Treat your phone, tablet and computer like physical safety deposit boxes, and never hand them over to another person.
5. Monitor Your Bank Account
Get into the habit of checking the activity on your bank account regularly. Cybercriminals typically don’t clear your bank account out in one go; they’ll skim a few rands over a period of time and before you realise, a significant amount of cash has been taken. Get into a routine of checking your transactions daily.
6. Check Your Notifications
Ping! Between emails, DMs, SMSs and random updates, your phone is probably sending you multiple notifications, but remember, never ignore those coming from your bank. This allows you to act fast if you notice an unauthorized transaction.
7. Log Out
Make a habit of closing your mobile banking apps when you’re done with them, and logging out of your online banking. Sure, you’ll be logged out automatically after a few minutes of inactivity… And yes, your good habits mean that your device is secure. But we’re talking about good habits here, and closing up when you’re done is one of the best.
Developing these habits is a good way to remain safe while banking digitally. Find more information on all things related to online safety and digital fraud here.
