How to make online banking safe?

Online banking is becoming more comfortable and at most banks is prerequisite that the account management fees will be waived. However, many consumers express concerns remain. Undoubtedly, there is a danger of being ripped off. But thanks to simple security measures and the careful handling of personal data, the risk of becoming a victim of fraudulent attacks, almost reduced to zero. The following aspects play a role:

• Operating System: Regardless of which operating system your PC or notebook is running, should always be taken to ensure that all security updates are installed. To always be up to date, it is recommended to automatically download the updates and let play. So you are on the safe side. The necessary settings are usually made ​​through the Control Panel.

• Browser: What is the operating system that should be heeded in the browser. Here also lurk security holes that are regularly “stuffed” with updates or newer versions.

• Encryption: Online Banking is encrypted only at all banks. These companies rely on the latest security technology. To recognize the encrypted transmission of data on “https” in the browser line. In addition, the certificate is displayed and alerted with a “padlock” that the transaction is secure.

• Anti-Viren-Software/Firewall: call banks to their customers on a regular basis, an anti-virus software and install a firewall. The programs that are designed to prevent viruses and nestle of third parties access to the computer, there are free or in paid versions. Important here are regular updates.

• PIN / TAN: Without personal identification number (PIN) and the customer or account number will remain the online banking access denied, and without transaction number (TAN), no booking be made. Therefore, these data may, in particular the PIN , never be publicly accessible. The PIN to write on a scrap of paper and place it under the keyboard, it would be grossly negligent. The same applies if the PIN mailer and the block with the TAN are simply kept in a drawer. Ideally, it closes this information in a safe place.

• Attention: Most fraud made ​​by e-mail or by means of counterfeit websites (phishing). Modern security software detects and blocks them from these experiments. But with a little common sense, the attacks are very easy to recognize. Banks require for example never more transaction numbers, either by email or on the access page for online banking. Acts changed the portal of the bank, which is missing is https or you are not sure: Better call the bank and ask instead of blindly entering data.