Net banking

Net banking is your bank's website login for checking balances and moving money. Use only the address you type yourself, never a link.

Net banking: Net banking, also called internet banking, is a service from your bank that lets you log in on a website to view statements, add beneficiaries and send money by NEFT, RTGS or IMPS. You log in with an ID, password and usually an OTP.

Many people use net banking for larger payments, tax payments and statements. Your login ID and password, plus the OTP sent to your registered mobile, protect it. Banks also ask for a second approval when you add a new payee, which is a useful speed bump if someone else has your password. It also helps to use a screen lock, updated phone and trusted Wi-Fi.

Fake net banking pages are a classic scam. An SMS says your account will be blocked and gives a link that looks like your bank. The page copies the real one and records your ID, password and OTP. The safe habit is simple: type the bank's address yourself or use its official app, and never log in from a message.

Tips

• Type your bank's website address yourself, or bookmark it, instead of using links from messages.
• Log out after every session and never use net banking on a shared or cyber cafe computer.
• Switch on SMS or email alerts so you notice every login and transfer.

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