Introduction: The Risks of Banking on Public Wi-Fi Networks
Internet access is no longer a luxury. In a world that is digitally connected, the Internet has become affordable. People can use it free of cost at popular public areas like airports, cafes, or train stations. However, using public networks can put one's sensitive data at risk. This guide explores the risks associated with public networks and the ways to secure one’s sensitive data on such networks.
Understanding the Threat Landscape: Common Security Risks on Public Wi-Fi
When a person uses public networks to access their bank/personal accounts, they must remember that these networks might not be safe. Cybercriminals thrive on these networks to access sensitive data, like login credentials, bank account details, and personal information of people using public networks.
Secure Banking Apps: Importance of Using Official and Updated Applications
While conducting any financial transaction using a public network, it is important to use secure banking apps. Always opt for official and updated applications from reputed financial firms, as they invest in the best security measures to safeguard their customers’ data.
Virtual Private Networks (VPNs): An Essential Tool for Secure Banking on Public Wi-Fi
VPNs encrypt the Internet connection and safeguard the data from cybercriminals. A VPN protects the user's IP address and also helps the user to access their bank/personal accounts safely from any part of the world.
Choosing a Trustworthy Network: Assessing the Safety of Public Wi-Fi Networks
One must remember that not all public Wi-Fi networks are safe. A few ways to assess the legitimacy of any public network are:
· Enquire with the staff and get access to the official network and password
· Make sure the website being used has “HTTPS” in its URL
· Make use of a VPN to secure the network
· Make use of firewalls, and disable file/printer/public folder sharing on the device
HTTPS Encryption: Ensuring Secure Communication with Banking Websites
HTTPS refers to Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure. It is an important component that safeguards the connection between the web servers. It also ensures the confidentiality of the person’s data. Furthermore, it also sends out warnings when the user tries to access a site that is not secure.
Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Adding an Extra Layer of Security on Untrusted Networks
Using 2FA is a great way to enhance online security as cybercriminals cannot get access to login credentials without the 2FA. It offers multiple authentication methods like the use of biometrics, text messages, or hardware tokens that are quite useful to recover one’s account as well.
Staying Vigilant: Monitoring Your Accounts and Reporting Suspicious Activity
Though robust security measures are used to protect one’s data, it is important to periodically review bank account and credit card statements and identify unauthorised transactions. People can also set up alerts on transactions or any modifications being done to their accounts.
Conclusion
Every individual needs to understand the cyber threats associated with using public Wi-Fi networks and implement security measures while using public networks to bank. By combining all these measures, the security of online banking activities can be enhanced, even when using public networks. Visit Federal Bank’s Learning Center to stay updated on cyber security and ways to safeguard oneself from cyber attacks.
