Safest Ways to Pay to Prevent Cyber Crimes

Key TakeAways

• Cybercrime is perpetrated in a number of ways and staying vigilant is imperative to prevent them
• Protecting your identity and financial information by taking basic measures is significant
• Know about the safest ways to prevent cybercrime that can help you save your money.

Most of us conduct all our transactions online. From banking and financial transactions to grocery shopping, investing and even paying bills – we carry out most of our work from a trusted computer or a mobile device. This, however, has led to a rise in the number of cybercrimes registered in the country. To stay protected, it is important to know what is cybercrime and learn the basics of preventing them.

Any crime that is propagated through digital media, the internet, etc., is called a cybercrime. Cybercrimes could range from pranks and online bullying to the more serious ones. The most common, by far, are financial scams and frauds, and identity theft.

Some of the most common thefts that internet users report include –

• Receiving emails, calls, and text messages, that prompt users to share financial and personal information which is later used to defraud them
• Virus attacks and hacking attempts that steal identity, account details, and financial information
• Password theft, credit/debit card details theft which is subsequently sold to fraudsters
• Fake websites that prompt you to make payments against a false promise of services/goods

5 Ways to Prevent Cybercrimes

1. Use a Secure Device : The computer and mobile device you use to transact online should be secure. Update your anti-virus and firewall software. Do not use public computers or open networks (public Wi-Fi hotspots) to access your digital financial accounts. Download applications only from trusted sources to avoid virus attacks.
   
   
2. Use Strong Passwords : Pay close attention to your online credentials. Do not use the same login id or password for all your accounts. Do not use commonly known details or names in your password. Use a strong alphanumeric string with caps and special characters in between. Change your passwords periodically.
   
   
3. Do Not Share Personal/Financial Details : Trusted financial institutions, banks, and NBFCs such as Bajaj Finserv will never ask you to share your account number, credit/debit card numbers, OTP, CVV, and other secure information. Do not fall for scam calls or emails that prompt you to reveal such information and put your financial security in risk.
   
   
4. Judicious Use of Social Media : Social media is a great place to connect with brands, raise complaints, and find a resolution. You must, however, be judicious when it comes to clicking on advertisements that promise "too-good-to-be-true" offers or prompt you to share your personal data. These could be created by scammers and could lead to cybercrimes.
   
   
5. Redressal Options : Despite all the precautions, if you happen to fall victim to a cybercrime, you must be aware of all the redressal options. It is important to block your account/credit/debit card and protect yourself from further loss. Lodge a complaint with the cybercrime portal and your local police station.

Awareness and protective measures are the best way to stay safe and conduct digital transactions.

Savdhaan Rahein. Safe Rahein.