Online banking security tips
12 December 2007
When the Automatic Teller Machine (ATM) first arrived we all asked the question, "how good is this?" after hours banking available whenever we want, at our own convenience.
We didn't have to wait long for after hours banking to improve even more with the introduction of the Internet and online banking which has given after hours banking a whole new meaning.
Unfortunately, one of the drawbacks with online banking is that we really have to be vigilant against fraud.
This is compounded when identity theft is involved. It's not just a matter of being inconvenienced by having to get new credit cards and make visits to the bank to sign paperwork stating you didn't make such and such transaction.
Identity theft can leave you not only with a bad credit rating but also with court appearances.
When using the Internet to conduct online banking, Make sure that there is a little padlock icon in the bottom of your browser before you start punching in account numbers and passwords.
Many financial institutions offer SMS payment security, if you have a mobile phone then it's a good feature to have but make sure that you actually read every digit every time you accept a transaction. Far too many people give the SMS message a quick glance, which could be costly.
Also, check if the "https" prefix is in the address bar of your browser before you begin to submit your personal details online when shopping online.
Again, if you are using your credit card to make a purchase online, check if the web site has an SSL Certificate.
Recommended Transaction & Savings Accounts
