Hackers are always on the move, but your money doesn’t have to be at risk. It’s often the small mistakes that leave the biggest openings. A few smart habits can close those gaps for good. These ten steps will help keep your bank account safe and your savings untouched.
Use Two-Factor Authentication
Most breaches happen when a second security step is missing. With 2FA on, fraud risk drops by 70%. Reused passwords? Doesn’t matter—2FA blocks access anyway. But skip SMS codes if you can. App-based tokens hold up far better when hackers start sniffing around.
Create Complex Passwords
Weak passwords open the door for most attacks. Hackers use AI to guess simple combos instantly. Just four extra characters turn an 8-digit password into a near-impossible puzzle. Try using random, unrelated words in a sequence. They’re tougher to crack and much easier to remember.
Update Software Regularly
Old software is hacker heaven. Nearly two-thirds of cyberattacks exploit flaws that already have fixes. That’s why enable automatic updates to keep your devices protected. Some banks won’t even cover fraud if your tech’s behind, so staying current matters more than ever.
Monitor Account Alerts
Don’t wait for your bank to flag fraud—beat it there. Enable alerts for large purchases or overseas activity. Spotting something off in real time lets you freeze your card before the money’s gone. Some apps even let you shut things down with one tap.
Use A Virtual Private Network
Public Wi-Fi may seem free, but it can be costly when hackers strike. A VPN shields your logins behind layers of encryption. Whether you’re banking at an airport or hotel, that protection keeps your data unreadable, even if someone is watching from across the room.
Enable Biometric Verification
Fingerprints and face scans are impossible to guess and nearly impossible to steal. They reduce unauthorized logins by up to 80%. Many apps layer biometrics on top of PINs for added defense. Unless someone has your actual face, they’re not getting in.
Limit Shared Personal Info
What you post online helps hackers guess passwords and security questions. Pet names, hometowns, birthdays—they’re all clues. Tighten your privacy settings and think twice before sharing. The less they know, the harder it is for them to pretend to be you.
Avoid Suspicious Emails
Phishing attacks often mimic real bank emails down to the logo. One wrong click can hand over your login. Instead, skip the links and head straight to your bank’s app. Some banks even offer secure inboxes to dodge shady messages altogether.
Use Dedicated Devices For Banking
Separating your financial activity from everyday browsing lowers risk. A dedicated phone or tablet helps avoid exposure to malware from downloads or shady websites. Even an inexpensive device, if used only for banking, adds a significant layer of protection.
Check Statements Frequently
Thieves usually start small, a $2 charge here, a $5 one there. These “test runs” escalate fast. By checking your statement weekly, you can detect fraud early and receive a refund more quickly. Some apps will even highlight unusual patterns for you.
