4 Simple Ways to Stay Safe with Online Banking in 2025
Online banking is now the everyday norm – whether you’re checking your balance on your phone or making payments through an app, most of us rarely visit a bank branch anymore. But with the rise in digital banking, scammers are always finding new ways to try and steal your details.
The good news? Staying safe is easy when you know what to look out for. Here are four simple tips every online banking user should follow in 2025:
- Always Go Direct to Your Bank’s Website or App
Never click on links in emails or texts, even if they look genuine. Scammers often send messages pretending to be your bank, hoping you’ll click through to a fake site that steals your details.
Tip: Type your bank’s web address directly into your browser, or use your bank’s official app. Bookmark the site for quick access.
- Avoid Public Wi-Fi and Shared Devices
Using public Wi-Fi or computers in places like coffee shops, hotels, or libraries puts your banking details at risk. Hackers can intercept your information on unsecured networks or install software that logs everything you type.
Tip: Only log in to your bank using your own phone, tablet or computer, and always on a secure, private internet connection.
- Use Strong Passwords and Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Create a unique password for your online banking – something you don’t use anywhere else. Avoid names, birthdays, or anything easy to guess.
Tip: Use a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols, and consider a reputable password manager if you struggle to remember passwords. Always turn on two-factor authentication (2FA) for an extra layer of security – this usually means your bank will text you a code or send a notification to confirm it’s really you.
- Check for the Padlock and Secure Connection
Before you log in or enter any personal details, check your browser shows a padlock symbol next to the website address. The web address should begin with https:// (the ‘s’ stands for secure).
Tip: If you don’t see the padlock or the address doesn’t look right, do not enter your details – close the page and contact your bank if you’re unsure.
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