If you\u2019ve got teens, then no doubt you\u2019ve received the SOS texts. \u2018Mum, I need a haircut, can you just spot me $30?\u2019 or \u2018I\u2019ve just finished footy and I\u2019m starving, can you transfer me some money?\u2019. Where would the modern parent be without online banking? How did our non-digital forefathers ever cope??<\/p>\n
Online banking is just so convenient and basically a necessity of modern life. If you\u2019ve recently tried to conduct a transaction at a branch, then you\u2019ll know exactly what I mean. One of my boys recently tried to set up a new account at a local banking branch and they were told to come back the following day. Instead, we went home and did it online in less than 20 minutes!<\/p>\n
Aussie banks are world class at implementing a range of security measures to keep our banking safe however there are still things we can do to avoid our banking details getting into the hands of hackers. But many of us just assume that \u2018all is well\u2019 – our banking apps work seamlessly, so why do we need to worry? And that\u2019s where many come unstuck. If it doesn\u2019t appear to be broken, why do we need to fix it? Well, being ahead of the risks is how you keep yourself safe, my friends. So, here are my top tips to ensure all your family members are banking online in the securest way possible.<\/p>\n
If you\u2019re changing banks or helping your child set up their online banking, it\u2019s essential that you download your bank\u2019s official app. Imitations do exist! Ideally, download the app from the bank\u2019s website however if this isn\u2019t an option use a genuine app store like Apple\u2019s AppStore or Google Play for Android devices. And always verify the app is legitimate by checking the developer details and reading the reviews.<\/p>\n
Budgeting or financial management apps are an incredibly popular way to help manage finances, but you need to be cautious here too as many will require you to share your banking logins. Always check the app\u2019s reviews, its history of data breaches and its security policies before you download.<\/p>\n
Using the name of your puppy, your kids or worse still, your birthday, is one of the fastest ways of getting your banking details into the hands of hackers. Passwords need to have no connection to any part of your life, should never be stored in your banking app or anywhere on your phone and NEVER, EVER written on the back of your debit card!! Here are my top tips:<\/p>\n
Make them long \u2013 choose a phrase instead of just 1 word. I love a nonsensical sentence with at least 10 characters.<\/p>\n
Always include lower and uppercase letters, a number or 2 and a few symbols.<\/p>\n
Every online account needs its own unique password \u2013 no exceptions.<\/p>\n
Put a reminder in your calendar to update your passwords regularly \u2013 at least every 3-6 months.<\/p>\n