Online banking can be a very beneficial and useful means of keeping track of your funds and your budget. Not only can it save time as it voids the usual routine of having to go to the bank, but it also comes with a variety of other benefits such as instantly being able to view and print a bank statement for free, giving up-to-date and regular updates in regards to debits and payments and it can even be used to pay bills online via direct debit to ensure that no bills ever have to be late again. There are many tips for using online banking that can benefit any Internet user.
Computer protection and safety
Ensuring the safety of the computer used to access the Internet banking services is a necessity. Computers can become infected with such thigs as viruses, adware, spyware and even key loggers which can put data and bank details at risk. Some malicious software will even steal passwords and inflict identity theft and fraud. Ensure proper computer safety at all times. Run frequent antivirus checks, ensure no spyware or adware is infected on the computer system and never overlook the benefits of firewall programs either.
Online safety and precautions
Spam is a popular annoyance on the Internet and there is seemingly no way around it. However spam can also be very malicious and dangerous. Sometimes, spam can be delivered to e-mail inboxes posing as your bank and it will then go on to ask for your personal banking details. This is an obvious threat as if you enter your details, you could face hacking and identity theft. Some online links can be dangerous also and pose similar threats. Always keep an eye on the address bar to ensure you are only entering your details to your bank and not a dangerous site. Common security checks include looking for “https” in the address bar or a padlock logo next to it to identify a safe server.
Public access and network security
When using online banking services, it is very important to consider the security of the connection that you are using. If you are accessing it via your own personal Wi-Fi or wireless network, always ensure that your network is encrypted to protect your details from unwanted eyes. For public access computers, always be sure that nobody else is looking when you enter your details and when you are finished, always delete the cache, cookies and history folders also for extra precaution.
Online banking can save plenty of time and effort in the busiest of daily working routines, but it can also pose a security and personal identity threat if proper safety precautions and measures are not taken. Always make sure that your computer security is top notch with antivirus software, adware removal software, anti-spyware and firewalls. From there, be sure to maintain peak Internet security by not clicking on any malicious e-mails or entering details into any unwanted areas. Keep the security of your connection in mind also. Utilize encryption and network protection measures and always utilize caution and extra necessities such as clearing your details from the computer when using public computers such as in Internet cafes.