For a change, today we will discuss the security aspect of banking operations on our blog. Currently, most financial transactions take place online. Indeed, you check your accounts online, print your bank statements via your connection to your bank’s website, make transfers directly via your computer, etc. It is no wonder that crime has evolved and turned to computer fraud. However, do not panic; with a little common sense and vigilance, you should be able to thwart any attempted scam.
Using 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 payment must be repaid within a month of signing the credit contract and so on, month by month, until the end of your credit contract.
What is phishing?
Phishing means “fishing” in English. It is a criminal maneuver whereby a cybercriminal tries to extract the codes you use with your security module (calculator) to make online payments. We invite you to watch this explanatory video.
In general, cybercriminals try to get you to disclose your electronic signatures either by phone or by email. They invoke various reasons: bank security verification, etc. A simple rule: never disclose your M1 or M2 codes as well as your four-digit debit or credit card code for any reason. If in doubt, end the conversation and call your bank branch yourself to verify. Always go to your bank branch in person to carry out this type of operation.
It is not uncommon for fraudsters to duplicate a website to make you believe that you are on your bank’s correct website. Therefore, do not rely on appearances. If in doubt, double-click on the small padlock at the top right of the page before the URL to check 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, end your connection and notify your bank to check what it is about.
Some common-sense advice…
- Always use the latest operating system and perform updates recommended by your system;
- Ensure that your operating system is well protected by antivirus software. Also, 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;
- Read your bank’s IT security rules on its website;
- Never give an electronic signature with your security module by phone or email;
- After all, do not keep large amounts in your current or savings account: the interest rates are so low that they earn less than inflation. Prefer term accounts that will earn you more and have less easy access;
- Remember to log out after using your Home Bank or PC Banking;
- Be very cautious when using internet cafes. Invest in a small tablet if you need to travel and need to connect to your accounts regularly. You can now find Wi-Fi networks almost everywhere;
- Be vigilant if an unexpected screen appears while 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 errors or convoluted grammatical constructions should also alert you.
- One last thing, be careful with the information you share on social networks: your life will be of interest mainly to cybercriminals.
