The digital age has transformed financial services, offering convenience but also increasing the risk of cyber fraud. Protecting your finances online requires vigilance and adherence to security measures. The Ministry of Home Affairs’ “Cyber Dost” initiative provides essential tips to safeguard against these threats.

Here are key tips for secure online financial transactions:

• Never disclose sensitive financial information like net banking passwords, OTPs, ATM/phone banking PINs, CVV numbers, or expiry dates to anyone, even if they claim to be from your bank. Also, avoid responding to emails requesting these details.
  No bank or its employees will ever call or email you for your net banking password, OTP, ATM/phone banking PIN, or CVV number. Report such instances to your bank immediately

• Always use strong, unique passwords for different accounts, incorporating uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters. Change your passwords periodically. Avoid easily guessable passwords like “Jan@2018” or your date of birth.
• Use virtual keyboards when logging into online banking services, especially on public or shared computers. Do not conduct financial transactions over public Wi-Fi networks, as these computers might have keyloggers installed.
• Always log off from your online banking portal or website after completing transactions and delete your web browser’s Browse data.
• Verify the bank’s website address, ensuring “https” and a “lock” icon are present in the address bar, as “s” indicates a secure, encrypted connection.
  Regularly check your bank account activity for unexpected transactions and immediately report any discrepancies or suspicious activities to your bank, keeping their customer care number handy.
• Staying informed and vigilant is crucial in the fight against cyber financial fraud. By following the guidelines from the Ministry of Home Affairs’ “Cyber Dost” initiative, you can enhance your online security. Remember to consistently apply these practices to protect your financial information in the digital world. For more cyber safety tips, follow @CyberDost on Twitter and visit www.cybercrime.gov.in.

Job and financial fraud are prevalent digital threats, both using deception for illicit gains. While job fraud targets employment seekers with fake opportunities, financial fraud encompasses broader deceptive schemes to steal money or assets. Both exploit trust through online tactics. Protection involves thorough research, verifying official sources, avoiding unsolicited offers, and being wary of requests for money or suspicious communications. Reporting incidents to authorities is crucial for combating these crimes.