For once, we will discuss the security aspect of banking operations on our blog today. Currently, the majority of financial transactions take place on the internet. Indeed, you check your accounts online, print your bank statements via your connection on your bank’s website, make your transfers directly via your computer, etc. It is not surprising, therefore, that delinquency has evolved and turned towards computer fraud. However, don’t panic, with a little common sense and vigilance, you should be able to thwart any attempted scam.
The use of your PC banking
When your credit contract is signed, the borrowed funds are transferred to your current account within 48 hours of signing. Your first monthly installment must be repaid within the month of signing the credit contract and so on, month by month, until the expiration of your credit contract.
What is phishing?
Phishing means hameçonnage in English. It is a criminal maneuver by which a cybercriminal will try to extract the codes you use with your security module (calculator) to make your online payments. We invite you to watch this explanatory video.
In general, cyber crooks try to get you to communicate your electronic signatures either by phone or by email. They invoke various reasons: bank security verification, etc. A simple rule: never communicate your M1 or M2 codes as well as your four-digit debit or credit card code for any reason whatsoever. In case of doubt, cut the conversation short and then call your bank branch yourself to verify. Always physically go to your bank branch to carry out this kind of operation.
It is not uncommon for fraudsters to duplicate a website to make you believe you are on the correct site of your bank. So do not rely on appearances. In case of doubt, double-click on the small padlock at the top right of the page before the URL to verify that it is indeed your bank’s URL. In any case, even via your bank’s website, no one can ask you for your electronic signature. If a suspicious screen appears, terminate your connection and notify your bank to verify what it is about.
Some common sense advice…
- Always use the latest operating system and perform the updates offered by your system;
- Ensure that your operating system is well protected by an antivirus. Again, do not forget to perform updates…
- Beware of free download sites: they are an ideal entry point for viruses;
- Periodically perform a full scan of your computer;
- Familiarize yourself with your bank’s IT security rules via its website;
- Never give an electronic signature with your security module by phone or email;
- After all, do not keep large sums in your current account or savings account: the interest rates are so low that they yield less than inflation. Prefer term accounts that will yield more and are therefore much less accessible;
- Do not forget to log out after using your Home Bank or PC Banking;
- Be very cautious when using cybercafés. Invest in a small tablet if you are required to travel and need to connect regularly to your accounts. You will find wifi networks almost everywhere now;
- Be vigilant if an unexpected screen appears when using your PC Banking or Home Bank. Log out and check if the phenomenon occurs again. If so, notify your bank for verification.
- Banks never ask for confidential information by email or phone. Be wary if you receive such a request. Log out and call your bank.
- Spelling mistakes or convoluted grammatical constructions should also alert you.
- One last thing, be careful with the information you share on social networks: your life will mainly interest cybercriminals.