What is phishing

Phishing is a type of cyber at tack in which Internet users are tricked into divulging sensitive information about their bank ac counts and personal details. Fraudsters who en gage in phishing scams intend to steal your cre dentials to siphon mon ey from your account.

2. How does phishing work?

A common online phishing scam starts with a spoofed e-mail message that looks like an official notice from a trusted source, such as a bank, credit card company , or reputable online mer chant. These spoofed mails tell recipients to validate or update their personal credentials failing which their accounts would become inactive and directs them to a website that looks like the genuine organisa tion's website.Unsuspecting customers follow the links in the mail and submit their personal details that fraudsters later use to place orders, services, transfer money from ac counts, etc which ulti mately leads to identity theft.

3. What are the details banks will never ask for via phone or email?

Banks will never ask for your full PIN or any online banking passwords over the phone or via email. It will not ask a client to email or text personal or banking information.Further, banks will not send emails with a link to a page that asks for your online banking log-in details.

4. What are the actions that a bank will not ask a client to take?

Banks will never ask clients to transfer funds to another ac count, hand over cash or carry out a test transaction online. They will also not call to advise clients to buy diamonds, land or other commodities.When it comes to banking services through mobile apps, banks will not ask clients to use any mobile apps other than the bank's official app.

5. How can I ensure safety while banking online?

Ensure that your passwords are simple, strong and kept confi dential. Remember to change the passwords periodically or whenever you feel your password has been compromised. Always use the virtual keyboard to enter your credentials. Use newer or upgraded versions of browsers as they are regularly updated to block and alert you from accessing the phishing sites. Logout completely after using the online application and close that browser window. Always check the address bar on the website to see if the address starts with `https' and look out for the `secure' sign with an icon of a lock. If you do come across any suspicious website, or have received any such mail, do inform your bank. While banks have introduced additional layers of security , you need to be careful too.