If you haven’t already taken these two simple steps to keep hackers from robbing you blind, you should stop what you’re doing and take care of this now. Many businesses around the world are scaling back during this global health crisis, but cybercriminals are upping their game. They are exploiting the increased use of virtual environments to steal sensitive information, intercept financial transactions and engage in extortion.
No. 1: Set up multi-factor authentication to access your bank accounts. Most banks offer this security setting which requires a second step to logging in. When you enter your username and password (first step) you will then receive a text message on your phone with a code to enter before access to an account is granted (second step). So even if a hacker has your password, he or she will be unable to log in to your account unless they have your mobile phone in their possession.
No. 2: Set up withdrawal and charges alerts on your bank accounts and credit cards. When money is withdrawn or transferred from an account or a credit card has been used in a transaction, you will receive an email or text message alerting you. These alerts allow you to spot and report fraudulent activity before the money reaches the cybercriminal’s hands.