7 tips to safer online banking

Banking has never been easier. Type in one simple web address and you have access to your bank for almost anything, from viewing the latest balance to transferring money to your friend to paying for that online purchase.

However, this convenience has its set of risks too. The stepping of financial institutions into the virtual realm has lead to a new breed of financial criminals. Criminals, who largely thrive on the innocuousness of netizens and technology loopholes.

Here are some simple tips to prevent you from falling into the trap of these cyber criminals. Remember, a simple ignorance or oversight can make a huge dent in your hard-earned savings.

1.

Always check the URL of your bank's web site


Fraudsters can lure you to enter your user ID and password at a fake web site that resembles your bank. If you see anything other than the bank's genuine URL, it has to be fake.

Never enter your user ID or password or such sensitive information without ascertaining that you are on the right web site. Always type the Web address of your bank into the browser address space. Never click on the link in the email.


2.

Regularly check for security updates for your OS (operating system).

Most security updates are aimed at reducing risks to your computer, these may be data-related or otherwise. Make sure that your operating system and browser have the latest security patches installed. And, always install these only from trusted web sites.

Install a personal firewall to prevent hackers from gaining unauthorized access to your computer, especially if you connect to the Internet through a cable or a DSL modem.

3.

Change your online banking password at regular intervals.

Also, avoid easy-to-guess passwords, like first names, birthdays, kid's or spouse's name and telephone numbers. Try to have an alpha-numeric password, one that combines alphabets and numbers.

If you have several bank accounts, never use the same online banking password for all. Never select the option on browser that stores or retains user name and password. As it can easily be cracked by cyber criminals.

Also, never paste your password, always type it in. This little amount of `finger exercise' will go a long way in safety.

4.

Banking website address should be SSL protected.

Some banks have enhanced security features in Internet banking. For example, if the money that you want to transfer online to another account exceeds a particular sum, you may have to enter a specific password. Several banks require password to validate high-value transactions.

Make sure that the banking website address starts with https (SSL protected) which ensures encryption protected communications.


5.

Always log out when you exit the online banking portal.

Most banks have a 'last logged in' panel on their web sites. If your bank has it, check the panel whenever you log in. If you notice irregularities (like you are logging in after two days, but the panel says you logged in that morning!), report the matter immediately to your bank and change your password right away.

Always log out when you exit the online banking portal. Close the browser to ensure that your secure session is terminated. Never exit simply by closing the browser.


6.

Avoid accessing your bank online at cyber cafes.

Don't leave the PC unattended after keying in information while transacting on the web site. Avoid accessing your bank online at cyber cafes or on a share or public computer.

Also, avoid locations that offer online connections through wireless networks (Wi-Fi), where privacy and security are minimal.


7.

Avoid filling out forms in email messages that seem spam.

Avoid filling out forms in email messages that ask for personal financial information, like account or credit card numbers. Never, in response to any email, provide your online banking user ID, passwords, credit and debit card numbers.

No bank's representative will ever ask for your user ID/ credit or debit card number/ password in any form. If they do, change the bank!

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