Top Tips To Protect Your Online Banking Password From Hackers

The introduction of digital banking including online and mobile banking has undoubtedly made things smooth and swift apart from managing your finances efficiently. With the arrival of digital banking, scores of users can now easily pay their bills, transfer money from any corner of the world, and deposit cheques on time.

Large number of people opt to bank digitally considering the huge convenience and ease it offers. But, the innovation in technology has made hackers smart too. They leave no stone unturned to steal your hard-earned money through their deceitful methods. However, a few smart steps can significantly help you secure online and mobile banking apart from keeping your information safe and secure.

Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) under IT Ministry observed Cyber Jaagrookta Diwas on April 3, 2024. To mark the event, government cybersecurity watchdog shared key tips for protecting your password.

It is worth noting that strong passwords must be used to keep your email and online banking accounts safe. Below are some important tips to keep your password safe and secure:

• Don't forget to enable multi-factor authentication
• It is best to avoid similar passwords for several accounts
• Do never forget to log out after every online session
• Always try to avoid using common things as passwords. It may include your street name and pet name, among others
• It is imperative to change your passwords in short periods and on a regular basis
• Try not to use dictionary words as your passwords
• The password that you have decided to use should ideally be a combination of lowercase and uppercase alphabets. The password should include number along with symbols
• You must always avoid clicking suspicious links that you may have received via email or messages
• It is important to create passwords that can be difficult to speculate or guess
• You must avoid using passwords that are too short, simple as hackers may crack them easily

CERT also shared some key practices to keep safe from phishing attacks. CERT shared tips to create awareness and sensitise internet users on safeguarding against cybercrimes and frauds:

• You must never click on unknown links or attachments obtained via email , social media, or message
• Keep your device safe with latest antivirus
• Never fill forms that come with unsolicited e-mails
• Avoid opening emails or advertisement offering free downloads
• You must always enable your spam email filters
• Never respond to emails that may contain threatening content
• Never open emails coming with spelling errors or usually hyperlinks
• Never respond to emails that may be creating sense of urgency
• Avoid clicking on shortened URLs