The basics of online security
Online, securely?
Sharing photos on social networks, chatting with friends and family, shopping or booking holidays... the Internet has expanded the range of possibilities. But how secure is your personal data?
The utmost vigilance
The information that circulates on the web can be intercepted or compromised, your device can be infected by a virus, your personal data can be stolen, etc. So always be very vigilant on the Internet.
Avoiding the pitfalls
With the Internet and its many pitfalls, cybersecurity must become a habit. Discover tips and tricks to ensure your personal data is secure and protect yourself against fraud.
Beware of cybercriminals
Phishing, identity theft, data theft, malware etc. Hackers are constantly coming up with new, more realistic and sophisticated techniques.
A small moment of inattention on your part can have serious consequences. Here, we give you some tips on how to secure your personal data and avoid pitfalls.
How do I create a good password?
The basics of a strong password
The longer, more surprising and more complex your passwords are, the more difficult they will be to crack.
- Combine all the character types on your keyboard: CAPITALS and lower case letters, numbers and special characters.
- Use long sentences instead of one word.
- Use only impersonal data (i.e. not your birthday or the name of your spouse or child).
- Avoid the logical order of the keys: hackers will definitely try this method (so neither 12345 nor azerty).
- Invent a non-existent word: hackers test all the words in the dictionary with software, even the most exotic word that you had specially chosen as a password.
A password manager
Use a unique password for each application (private or professional). This way, if a hacker discovers one of your passwords, he won't be able to get into all your other applications.
Use a password manager to generate unique passwords for each app and website. You don't need to know them all, as your password manager centralises them and you only need one password to access them. Practical and safe!
An additional lock
In addition to the password (something you know), add, depending on your device's features, fingerprint or facial recognition security (a unique biological identification feature) and/or enable your device's lock (something you own).
This is known as two-factor authentication. An extra lock for extra security!
How can I ensure the security of my devices?
Digital devices are 'smart'. They follow your every move and know more about you than you think. Hackers, on the other hand, are not lacking in ingenuity. Make sure your secrets don't fall into the wrong hands by protecting your devices!
Activate your devices lock
Whether it's your smartphone, tablet or computer, make sure you enable your device's lock (a code, your fingerprint or facial recognition depending on your device's features).
Do your updates
Most updates include security updates. It is therefore essential to update operating systems and applications as soon as updates are available.
Download from official shops
Some applications contain malware. Therefore, be careful when downloading applications and do so in the official online shops (App Store, Google Play). Never click on a link to download or update an application.
Use a known and secure Wi-Fi
Connecting to public Wi-Fi is risky. When travelling, it is better to use the 'wifi hotspot' of your smartphone or limit the 'connection time' to a minimum value (e.g. synchronise your mailbox and disconnect from the public/shared Wi-Fi network). At home, don't forget to change your modem's original password and don't let strangers connect to your network.
Install anti-virus or anti-malware software
To avoid malware (software installed fraudulently on a computer in order to penetrate its security) and ransomware (malicious software that takes personal data hostage), you can install an anti-virus or anti-malware software on your computer. You should also regularly scan your USB sticks with an anti-virus software.
How can I avoid fraud and phishing?
Inform yourself to (re)act better
Dubious e-mails, links to fake websites, scams on social networks... Fraud and phishing attempts are everywhere. To avoid pitfalls on the web, some vigilance is required.
Test your knowledge, discover our tips and videos to learn how to recognise scams and how to react in case of fraud.
What should I do in an emergency?
What should I do in an emergency?
Have you received a suspicious message, lost your bank card or smartphone, or think your personal data has been stolen?
In case of (suspected) fraud related to the bank (cards, Easy Banking Web or Easy Banking App), there are certain steps you can take to limit the action of hackers.
For more tips and tests on cyber security, visit www.safeonweb.be.
It's official, it's Safeonweb
Have you received a message from a provider or an official body urging you to click on a link and then log in to your "online bank"? Send the e-mail, a screenshot of the text message, etc. to suspect@safeonweb.be.
Tip: download the Safeonweb application developed by the Centre for Cyber Security in Belgium. As well as giving you advice, this app alerts you to cyber threats and online scams.
Our guarantees for your online security
The security of your online and mobile banking
When you use Easy Banking Web and Easy Banking App, procedures are in place to ensure the security of your personal and banking data. Find out how your online and mobile bank offers you a secure environment.
The security of Easy Banking
How can I pay securely online?
Refreshing your wardrobe, subscribing to a streaming platform, booking your next holiday etc. The Internet has multiplied the possibilities, including for shopping. Find out how the security of your online payments is guaranteed.
Your secure online payments
