WHETHER YOU’RE A fan or not, going digital with your finances is here to stay. And as more bank branches and high street shops close down, you’re likely to see even more of your money matters go online in 2020.
But when you log in are you doing everything you can to ensure you’re safe from dodgy websites, hackers and fraudsters? Here are the essential ways to protect yourself and your money online.
Triple check the details you enter
When you transfer money from your banking app or website, always make sure you’ve put in the right account number and sort code. Then check again. And again. People have lost life savings sending cash to the wrong person—whether by accident or after being duped by fraudsters.
Set up double authentication on your important accounts
Though an extra step when logging in will take a bit more time, it can really make your accounts extra secure. Double authentication generally requires you to enter a code sent to your phone or generated on a card reader.
It’s not just banks you can do this for, consider using it for your email account too.
Keep an eye on your statements
Whether you get statements in the post or online you need to keep an eye out for anything suspicious. Banking apps are particularly good for this as you can check with a few clicks and swipes on a daily basis.
Have a separate payment card
It’s sensible not to save card details in your shopping accounts if offered the option, but if you have to, then one simple way to ring fence your money is to use a completely separate card for all of your online transactions.
This story is from the Reader's Digest March 2020 edition of Reader's Digest UK.
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This story is from the Reader's Digest March 2020 edition of Reader's Digest UK.
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