Any information which can verify a person’s identity can be considered personal digital keys. Examples are account login credentials, ID card information (including ID number, date of birth, etc.) and ID card copy, address and address proof, internet banking account number, mobile phone number, email address, date of birth, and one-time password. Such sensitive information must be kept safe at all times as fraudsters may steal or misuse them to do online shopping, apply for membership or credit card, or even commit illegal acts.
To prevent information leakage and protect yourself from identity theft, you should:
Online shopping has become part of our lives. While enjoying the convenience, it is important to stay vigilant. Fraudulent websites may purport to be from reputable companies, or use bogus endorsements and special offers to lure individuals for their personal information. Before sending sensitive information over the Internet, users should check whether the website is reliable.
Mobile data is indispensable to city dwellers. Many public places offer Wi-Fi (charged or free). However, as the security level of public Wi-Fi may not be good enough, you are exposed to the risk of hacking and data leakage when accessing your internet banking account and inputing other sensitive information via public Wi-Fi . Hackers may even infect your computer or mobile phone with malicious software. Thereby, don’t process any sensitive information over a public Wi-Fi network.
Passwords for online accounts should be more sophisticated. Avoid using passwords that are easy to guess such as mobile phone numbers or simple combinations. Users should use different passwords for different accounts and change them regularly to strengthen the security. This protects other accounts from being affected if one is hacked.
When using online financial services or making credit card transactions, financial institutions usually send out messages (such as SMS) to confirm or notify users of relevant actions. In case of suspicious transactions, users should immediately notify the relevant financial institution to reduce financial losses.
Most people only know the importance of installing security softwares, but to protect your electronic devices from the latest computer viruses, you should use the latest versions of Apps and browser.
Financial Knowledge
Life Events
Contact Us
In support of the Hong Kong Money Month
Copyright © 2023 Hong Kong Economic Journal Company Limited. All rights reserved.
