In today’s digital world, managing your finances online has never been easier. The adoption of online and mobile banking has increased access to a variety of financial services; however, it has also increased risks associated with cybercrime. While the responsibility of protecting customer information primarily lies with banks and other financial institutions, it is equally important for customers to be aware of simple steps they can take to better secure their data.
Below are essential tips to help safeguard your account and personal information from data breaches:
Use strong & unique passwords
A strong password is your first line of defence. Avoid easily guessed passwords, such as birthdays or names of loved ones. Do not reuse passwords across multiple accounts, especially for sensitive information like banking. Experts recommend creating an easy-to-remember base password and adjusting it slightly for each account, such as "IDontLikePasswords1!" for one and "IDontLikePasswords2!!" for another. You should also update your passwords regularly and, for extra security, change them at least once a year to ensure your data remains protected. It is also recommended to use a secure password manager to help keep track of all your passwords.
Do not share your password
No matter the situation, you should never share your password with anyone, no matter how trustworthy they may seem. Your password is the key to your personal and financial information, and sharing it increases the risk of unauthorized access to your accounts and a potential breach of your confidential information. Hackers, scammers, or even acquaintances could misuse your credentials, leading to identity theft, financial loss, or data breaches. Always keep your passwords private and avoid sharing them through text messages, emails, or over the phone. By keeping your passwords confidential, you strengthen your security and protect your sensitive information from potential threats.
Leverage on two-factor authentication
Where possible, make use of two-factor authentication as an extra layer of security to your account. This simple and effective security measure requires a second form of verification, such as a code sent to your phone or generated by an authentication app. Even if scammers or hackers obtain your password, they will not be able to access your account without this second step.
Be cautious with public Wi-Fi
Public Wi-Fi, while convenient, is often insecure. You should avoid accessing your bank account or entering sensitive information when connected to public networks, as they can expose your data to other users connected to the same network. If you must use public Wi-Fi, consider using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to encrypt your connection, making it harder for cybercriminals to steal your information. It is safer to use cellular data for banking services while on the go.
Be wary of suspicious emails
Scammers often use phishing emails to trick you into revealing sensitive information. If you receive an unsolicited email claiming to be from your bank, proceed with caution. Instead of clicking any links, log in to your bank’s website or call the helpline directly to verify the message’s authenticity. Never share sensitive information like your password via email.
Protecting customer data in today's technological financial sector is a top priority for any financial institution. However, it is essential to remain vigilant and proactive in protecting your personal and financial information. Take control of your financial security today and keep your data safe. Visit https://familybank.co.ke to get the best secure online banking services.
