Keeping your money safe is one of our most important objectives. Here are some of the ways we help protect you and your account information when you are subscribed for internet, mobile and tablet banking.
Two-factor authentication
Your username and password are two important bits of information required to log into our internet banking platform. However, to complete the login process, you will also need to enter a one-time PIN that will be sent to the mobile phone that you have registered with us.
Data encryption
Our online banking service is hosted on a secure, 128-bit encrypted server. This means that any information you send us is encoded for your protection.
Timed log out
Online banking logs you out if you don't use the service for 10 minutes. This gives you added protection if you forget to log yourself out.
Deactivation of your login details
We'll automatically disable your access to online banking if three incorrect attempts are made to log in using your details. This is to stop fraudsters making repeated attempts to get into your accounts. If you don’t use internet banking for more than 60 days, we will automatically deactivate your account to prevent any person from taking over your accounts.
Protect yourself
Fraud is a growing problem that everybody needs to be aware of. Here are some tips to help you protect yourself against fraud.
Keep your computer and mobile software up to date
Make sure you install all the latest updates for your internet browser (e.g. Internet Explorer) and operating system (e.g. Windows 7). You should be reminded of available updates when they’re ready automatically (unless you’ve manually turned this function off). Keeping your browser and operating system up to date will ensure that these things are safeguarded and performing as well as possible.
- You should have internet security software and a firewall installed on your computer, and you should also ensure you install any updates from the providers. Make sure you run a full scan of your computer regularly with your security software.
- Install the latest updates for any third-party products (e.g. non-Microsoft if you use a Windows operating system) you use. These updates sometimes include security fixes.
- Use strong passwords. A strong password should contain a mix of letters (upper and lowercase) and numbers. Try to avoid using anything obvious like your name, username or birth date. And change your passwords regularly.
- Only download files or programmes from the internet if they are from genuine, trusted websites or senders.
- Make sure you install anti-malware software on your web-enabled phone.
Keep your details safe
- Keep your cards, passwords, PINs, documents and personal information secure to protect you from identity theft, online fraud, card fraud and more. See our guide to identity fraud to learn more about how you can keep these details safe.
- Do not respond to unsolicited communications that ask for your personal details. Although these phone calls, letters, emails or texts can look or sound legitimate, it’s highly likely that they’re fraudulent. Don’t respond to these kinds of communications until you’ve contacted the company concerned to ensure that they’re genuine.
Be vigilant when using your computer and web-enabled mobile devices
Never download software, open attachments or follow links that you're sent by email unless you're sure they're safe. If in doubt, delete the email immediately. Fraudsters will commonly send unsolicited email with attachments or links that will ultimately install malware (malicious software) on your computer unbeknown to you. Be aware that these emails can be sent from people you know! Fraudsters can sometimes take over the email accounts of people you trust and send out emails containing malware to everyone in their address books. If you're suspicious of anything coming from your contacts, ask them if it's legitimate before proceeding to open any attachments or follow any links.
Be vigilant when using cash machines
- Move to another machine if someone behind you is behaving suspiciously or attempts to distract you.
- Never leave receipts behind. Keep them until you've checked them against your statements and dispose of them safely, preferably by shredding or burning them.
- Check for signs of tampering, as this could mean that the machine you're using has been illegally fitted with a skimming device.
Learn about lotto and advance-fee fraud and protect yourself
- These scams are variations of the same type of fraud: the victim is asked to make a payment in return for receiving a substantial amount of money.
- In both types of scam, the fraudster will claim the money is available but a payment is needed to help cover transfer or administrative costs.
- Treat any such requests for money with suspicion. Be aware that these requests can be made by phone, email, letter or even in person. They can look and sound legitimate. Don’t respond to any unsolicited communications promising prize money in return for payment.
If you suspect that you have been a victim of fraud on any of your Absa accounts, contact us immediately on (+248) 4383939.
