10 tips for using e-finance securely – the most important rules of conduct

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. postfinance.ch

Always enter “postfinance.ch” directly in the address bar of your browser and check that your connection is secure. A secure connection is indicated by the “s” in “https://”. This means that data is transferred in encrypted format. Mobile access to e-finance is most secure via the PostFinance App, which should always be downloaded from official stores (Apple Store, Google Play). You should also ensure that you do not use public Wi-Fi for online banking.

3. Secure connection

We recommend you use PostFinance SecureBrowser on your computer. PostFinance SecureBrowser protects you effectively against bank trojans, phishing attacks and data theft. If you use your own browser, you can check for outdated software with Browsercheck, which will also help you resolve security vulnerabilities.

4. Personal information

Do not disclose any personal information, especially access details such as user number, e-finance number and password. PostFinance will never contact you, not even by phone, to ask you for your access details. PostFinance will also never ask you to install any additional software to establish a connection with your computer. You should under no circumstances disclose your data to anyone claiming to be a bank advisor or relative.

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. You should also be wary of any claims that you have inherited a large sum of money from a distant and unknown relative abroad.

6. “Hi Mum, here’s my new number”

Unknown people pretend to be your son or daughter whose mobile phone has broken and ask for financial help. Be wary if “your children” don’t call you by name, and make sure you call the old mobile number.

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. Unfamiliar e-mail with links and/or attachments

Ignore or delete e-mails from unknown senders. Even if the subject line sparks your curiosity. Do not open e-mails, links or attachments 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.

More tips

Would you like more practical information? “eBanking – but secure!” is an independent platform run by Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts – information technology that helps you better understand your personal information security. They also offer courses to suit all needs.

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