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Safe Mobile Banking

Key Advice

  1. Similar to online banking on a computer, choose, use and protect passwords with great care. Use passwords that are not easily guessed by fraudsters.
  2. Make sure your smartphone or tablet is always protected with a PIN and set the device to automatically lock.
  3. Do not store your banking PINs or passwords on your smartphone or tablet.
  4. Only download mobile apps from official App stores, such as the Apple App Store, Google Play Store and Blackberry App World.
  5. Update banking and other apps on your device regularly.
  6. Always log out of your banking app or mobile website when you have finished using it. Closing the app or web page or turning off your device may not be sufficient.
  7. Regularly clear your browser’s cache – some mobile phones and tablets store copies of web pages that may contain your banking information.
  8. Always keep your mobile phone’s operating system updated with the latest upgrades. Older software may have vulnerabilities that could expose you to security and fraud risks.
  9. Do not use unsecured public Wi-Fi networks or hotspots for internet banking. Use a 3G or 4G internet connection instead.
  10. Download, use and keep updated one of the many reputable internet security apps for your device.
  11. Use a reputable brand of antivirus software on your mobile phone and check your device’s security settings to ensure maximum protection.
  12. Do not jailbreak or root your device or use a jailbroken or rooted device for internet banking as this may significantly weaken the security of your phone and expose you to fraud.
  13. Beware of emails, texts/SMSs or phone calls claiming to be from your bank or the Gardaí /Police that say you have a problem with your account or request your login or other confidential details. Your bank or other authentic organisation would never request these details.
  14. If possible arrange for estatements and paperless bills.