Since most people are staying at home and working from home, there has been a significant increase in online transactions. Therefore, hackers are trying to take advantage of the new remote work environment. Protect yourself against cybercrime by taking the following precautions:
Change your password regularly: If you change your password regularly, it will reduce the risk of potential hackers stealing your confidential information. Changing your password regularly can prevent contact access to your computer and prevent hackers from using your saved passwords.
Don’t use a computer that is used by everyone for online transactions: Public computers might be connected to networks that are vulnerable to attack or already compromised.Therefore, it is wise to never use a public computer or someone else’s computer for online transactions or banking as this will increase the risk of a fraudster hacking and recording your banking details.
Report a lost or stolen card immediately: If you lose your bank card or if it is stolen then make sure you report it immediately so that the bank can block your card and prevent any fraud. Check your monthly statement or check your transactions online regularly to see if there are any transactions that you do not recognise. If so, get in touch with your bank as soon as possible.
Avoid opening and clicking on suspicious emails: Do not open a suspicious mail that has several links in it as it may allow fraudsters to get unauthorised access to your account. If you open suspicious emails your computer might be infected with malware, allowing fraudsters to steal your private information and obtain control of your online accounts.
Also, if a hacker gets access to your email, contact list, or social media, they can spam people you know with phishing messages seemingly from you.
Do not share your banking details or OTP with anyone: Your bank or any other financial service provider will never ask for your PIN, password, or account number over the phone. If you receive a call like this then you should report it to your bank or financial institution immediately.
Spill the beans
Iemas Financial Services, a registered credit provider (NCRCP 1332), supports the fight against fraud and as such, have several platforms available to the public where they can report fraud. If you are an Iemas member and suspect any fraudulent activity related to Iemas, please report it by phoning 0800 000 463 (toll-free) or send an SMS to 33490. You can also send an email to iemas@whistleblowing.co.za or fill in the online form: www.whistleblowing.co.za/make-a-report.
Another available platform to report fraud is the QR code on our website under the Ethics and Fraud Hotline section: https://www.iemasfinancialservices.co.za/legal.php.
Source: https://english.jagran.com/business/how-to-protect-yourself-from-online-banking-fraud-here-are-5-golden-tips-10022415