3 Account Safety Rules By HDFC Bank For Taxpayers & Customers

It is best to follow some principles in order to keep your personal account private, such as keeping your mobile or computer device updated with the latest security patch, changing and keeping strong passwords, locking down your privacy options, refusing to consent to offers or discounts right off the bat, and so on. However, HDFC Bank, the country's largest private sector lender, has introduced 3 security tips to its customers and taxpayers.

1. Safety tips for taxpayers: HDFC Bank via its recent Tweet has warned taxpayers that "Fraudsters use fake SMS with a malicious link that installs an app, disguised as an Income Tax Department app claiming to give a refund. #MoohBandhRakho and don't share personal banking details with anyone." The bank has warned against fraudulent SMSes disguised as 'income tax refund' that prompts you to share personal information. However, as a safety tip, HDFC Bank has suggested always avoid clicking on unverified links and never share personal details with unknown sources.

2. Safety tip regarding KYC updation: Fraudsters pose as RBI/bank officials, seeking banking information for KYC updation & other such malpractices. #MoohBandhRakho when asked for OTP, PIN, banking passwords by unknown people, HDFC Bank says. HDFC Bank has warned its customers against fraudsters who can steal your banking information in the name of KYC updation.

3. Security tip against fake customer care number: HDFC Bank has warned its customers against fake customer care numbers. Via its Twitter handle the bank has warned that "Fraudsters post their personal numbers disguised as customer care / helpline nos. to deceive people and extract their sensitive banking information. #MoohBandhRakho and report it to National CyberCrime on 155260 or http://cybercrime.gov.in." HDFC Bank has warned against fake customer care/helpline numbers of banks or online shopping sites. The bank has suggested always visit the official website of the organization for their helpline number.

You can reduce your losses by informing your bank immediately if your bank account has been compromised by a fraudulent transaction. Give the number 14440 a missed call for additional information. Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has mentioned on its website that "If someone has fraudulently withdrawn money from your bank account, inform your bank immediately. When you notify the bank, remember to take acknowledgement from your bank. The bank has to resolve your complaint within 90 days from the date of receipt." The apex bank has also said that "If the transaction has happened because of your negligence, that is, because of your sharing your password, PIN, OTP , etc., you will have to bear the loss till you report it to your bank. If the fraudulent transactions continue even after you have informed the bank, your bank will have to reimburse those amounts. If you delay the reporting, your loss will increase and it will be decided based on the RBI guidelines and the policy approved by your bank's board."