With the rise in the use of digital payments like UPI, credit/debit cards, and mobile banking across the country during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, convenience has made these methods widely popular. However, they come with several security risks. Here are five tips to ensure secure digital payment transactions.
- 1. Avoid Saving Card Details
Make sure not to save your debit/credit card details while shopping online. Many people save these details for quicker payments in the future, but it’s safer not to. After completing your purchase, avoid saving your card information to protect against theft and fraud.
- 2. Use a Private Browser for Transactions
When making digital payments, avoid suspicious apps and websites, and use only trusted apps. Using a private browser and secure HTTPS links for transactions enhances security by preventing cookies and credentials from being stored.
Also, remember to log out of the page once your transaction is complete.
- 3. Don’t Share Passwords
Ensure that your internet banking passwords are strong and never share them with others. Be cautious of any fake calls asking for details like passwords or ATM PINs. Always use debit/credit cards on trusted websites and apps, and log out once your transaction is complete. A virtual keyboard can also offer additional security.
- 4. Avoid Public Computers/Wi-Fi Networks
When making online transactions, avoid public computers or Wi-Fi networks. Use only reliable websites and networks as public Wi-Fi increases the risk of data theft. Using secure networks for financial transactions helps prevent potential threats.
- 5. Beware of Fraudulent Apps
There are many fake apps on app stores. Avoid apps with multiple negative reviews, low downloads, and no ‘verified’ badge. If an app requests access to your phone’s camera, contacts, or SMS, exercise caution before granting access and always read the permissions carefully.
