Digital Hygiene - Staying Safe Online

Beware of Phishing

Phishing is when someone pretends to be trustworthy (like a bank or government agency) to trick you into sharing personal information. Here are a few things one should be aware of to protect themselves from phishing:

• Look for spelling errors in emails and links.
• Avoid clicking on links from unknown contacts.
• Verify directly with the institution if you’re unsure.
• Be cautious of tricks like using similar-looking letters in web addresses. 

For example, 

"BankofIndla.com" uses a lowercase "L" instead of an "I" to look real at first glance. Always double-check URLs carefully to avoid such scams.

Secure Your Devices to Stay Protected 

Securing your devices is crucial for safeguarding your personal information and preventing unauthorised access. By taking these simple steps to protect your phone and computer, you can help ensure your data remains safe from potential threats.

• Keep Your Devices Updated Regularly

Software updates often contain security patches that fix vulnerabilities. Set your devices to automatically update or check for updates frequently to ensure that they have the latest protection against threats.

• Install and Use Antivirus Software

Antivirus software scans for malware and viruses that can harm your device or steal your data. Ensure that you have reliable antivirus protection installed and that it runs regular scans to detect any potential threats.

• Set Up a Screen Lock

A strong screen lock adds an extra layer of security to your device. Use a PIN, password, or fingerprint recognition to prevent unauthorised access, especially if your device contains sensitive information.

• Extra Tip: Be Cautious with Links

Even if a message seems to be from a friend or trusted source, always verify before clicking on any link. Scammers often use familiar names or accounts to trick you into clicking malicious links that can compromise your security. Double-check the sender and the URL to avoid falling victim to phishing attacks.

Also read Understanding Unsecured Devices and Their Risks to Financial Apps.

Avoid Making Payments Using Public Wi-Fi

Public Wi-Fi is open to everyone, including cybercriminals. This makes them risky for conducting sensitive activities like online banking or making payments. To protect your financial information and privacy, it's important to avoid using public Wi-Fi for such transactions whenever possible. 

If you must, always use a VPN to secure your connection. A VPN encrypts your internet connection, providing a secure tunnel for your data and protecting it from prying eyes.

Recognise Fake Apps and Websites to Protect Your Information

Fake apps and websites are designed to trick users into revealing personal information, such as login credentials, credit card details, and other sensitive data. These fraudulent platforms can cause significant harm if you're not careful. It's essential to recognise the signs to protect yourself from potential scams.

Here are some tips for identifying fake apps and websites:

• Stick to reputable app stores, such as the Apple App Store or Google Play Store, to download apps.
• Avoid downloading apps from third-party websites or unknown sources, as these may contain malware or other malicious software designed to steal your information.
• When shopping online, making payments, or entering any personal information (such as your address or phone number), always check for secure website links. 
• A legitimate website should begin with "https://" rather than "http://." The "s" in "https" indicates that the site uses encryption to protect your data during transmission. 
• Always check for poor grammar, high-urgency messages, or sites asking for too much information.

Cyber Hygiene for Kids and Family Members

Cybersecurity is for everyone, including children and older family members who may not be familiar with online scams. Here are a few tips for safe online practices:

• Talk to your kids about safe online habits, like not sharing personal information with strangers.
• Teach elderly family members how to recognise spam and scam messages.

Stay Updated with Cybersecurity News and Tips

Cybersecurity threats are constantly evolving. Staying informed can help protect yourself and your information. Here are some tips to follow to stay updated with cybersecurity:

• Sign up for alerts from your bank or favourite financial apps.
• Follow trustworthy sources on social media for quick tips and updates.

Here is a list of trusted websites for the latest news and information:

• CERT-In (Indian Computer Emergency Response Team): Provides alerts, best practices, and guidelines for cybersecurity threats in India. https://www.cert-in.org.in/
• National Cyber Coordination Centre (NCCC): Offers real-time cyber threat monitoring and analysis in India.
• Cyber Swachhta Kendra: Government initiative for preventing and mitigating cyber threats. https://cyberswachhtakendra.gov.in/.

Report Cyber Incidents Immediately

If you think you’ve been scammed, contact your bank or payments provider immediately. Use government helplines and resources like the Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (cybercrime.gov.in) in India.

Why Should You Report Cyber Incidents?

Reporting cyber incidents helps protect you and others. Your actions can prevent further attacks and keep the digital world safer for everyone. Stay vigilant—your report can make a big difference!

Conclusion

The journey to a safer online experience starts with small, everyday actions. Let’s commit to practising these simple cyber hygiene tips and help make our digital economy more secure!

Disclaimer: Please note that Groww will never request sensitive information such as passwords, PINs, or account details via phone calls, text messages, or any other unsolicited communication. If you receive such requests, please disregard them and report them to us immediately via [email protected].

At Groww, we're committed to ensuring your security and privacy. If you have any questions or concerns about phone-based social engineering attacks or cybersecurity in general, please feel free to reach out to our support team.