10 tips to avoid Internet fraud

We do everything for your online security. Read through our selection of 10 general security tips to find out what you can do for your security. And if a Trojan or virus manages to sneak in the back door into your computer, the damage is covered. For details, please refer to our subscriber conditions. Find out here how to make life difficult for Internet fraudsters.

1. Passwords

There is a simple way of creating a secure password: form a sentence and take the first letters of each word. Then expand the password with special characters. It should be at least 12 characters long. If you only use it for e-finance and never disclose it to anyone you will be on the safe side.

2. https

Use the secure “https://” connection for online payments. PostFinance uses this connection type. HTTPS stands for “Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure”. Pay special attention to the small “s” which stands for security. In contrast to “standard” HTTP, HTTPS sends all the data to the receiving computer in encrypted form. You should also ensure that you do not use public Wi-Fi for online banking.

3. Personal information

Do not disclose any personal information, especially account information. PostFinance will never contact you to ask you for your access details. You should under no circumstances disclose your data to anyone claiming to be a bank advisor or relative.

4. Account

Regularly check your account statements.

5. “You’ve won...”

Fraudsters often lure people with dubious claims that they have won money. Be sceptical if you are sent a message about winning a competition, especially if you have not taken part in one.

6. Hi sweety, are you lonely?

E-mails detailing strange stories in suspiciously bad English point towards criminal intentions. Delete the e-mail and never click on the links or attachments it contains.

7. Transfers

Do not transfer money to unknown people. Personally make sure that anyone asking you for money really is who they say they are.

8. E-mails, links and zip files from unknown senders

Ignore or delete e-mails from unknown senders. Even if the subject line sparks your curiosity. Do not open e-mails, links or attachments such as zip files from unknown senders. They might contain viruses or Trojans.

9. Updates and anti-virus software

Keep your operating system and the apps and programs you have installed up to date at all times. Use security software (e.g. anti-virus)

10. Last but not least

It would be best to remain highly sceptical. If something online sounds too good to be true, it is. Get help if you are unsure or suspect an attack.