In the digital world today, where internet and smart devices have become the way of our lives, it is true that virtual platform is the best thing since sliced bread. But there is another aspect to all this too and people need to be aware of the same. When you get your D2H recharge done using a service provider’s site or payment aggregator’s site or app that passes through a third-party financial service provider, the risk of your sensitive personal information getting hacked and attacked also increases. This is, if the service provider and the reseller do not plan their security measures well and do not involve hi-tech and latest technology to fortify their systems, networks and servers.
Does this mean that we should stay away from digitization? In a country like India, where cash transactions have always got precedence over all other types of payment forms, even to the day, does it mean that cash transactions will always prevail and even something as efficient and smart as the online method will take a backseat?
The answer definitely is a no. As long as consumers are really smart and use modern technology intelligently. Next time when you conduct an online transaction, for example, have a D2H recharge done; then these are couple of things that you might want to take care of:-
- Try and use your smartphone and the mobile data network on the hand phone. You can also use a private Wi-Fi network for the purpose.
- Password-protect your phone. Use finger identification through biometrics, PIN and pattern confirmations to unlock your phone. This is something that only you should have information about.
- As far as Apps are concerned, always ensure strong passwords to protect from an authorized attack. Also ensure that your emails, your banking accounts etc, are also strongly protected through unique passwords. It is good to keep different passwords for different applications.
- Protect your phone and computer system from all possible attacks by installing reliable anti-virus applications and anti-malware software systems.
- Keep updating your phone software and apps as and when there are notifications. The updates are from the developers and the manufacturers – hence they make your device and Apps stronger and well-protected from external attacks.
- Always keep in mind to not click on unreliable links – links that you receive on your social media accounts or your email. The best is to first verify the source or the authenticity of such links before using them. If you are not too sure how to go about doing this, better is to stay off the link.
- Never download applications from unverified sources. Read about the developer before doing so. In case of downloading the apps of resellers always use the link given by the company or given by official sources.
- Keep a watch on your bank accounts and App activities so that you are always on top of things.
- It is safer to use your credit cards and e-wallets for online payments. It is best not to use the Netbanking and debit cards for such transactions.
