On the occasion of Safer Internet Day, digital payment service provider Visa has shared essential recommendations to help consumers stay safe in the digital space and ensure the privacy of their personal information.
The company highlighted the growing global threat of online fraud and data breaches, emphasizing that Bangladesh is also at risk. Recognizing this concern, Visa has taken initiatives to raise awareness and educate consumers on the latest security measures, enabling them to safeguard their personal and financial information more effectively.
“With time, we are becoming increasingly dependent on the internet for daily activities, social interactions, and shopping,” said Sabbir Ahmed, Country Manager for Visa in Bangladesh, Nepal, and Bhutan. “Fraudsters are also continuously devising new ways to steal consumer data and money.”
On February 11, in observance of Safer Internet Day, Visa provided key guidelines to help cardholders and general users protect their data and execute digital transactions with confidence. Additionally, Visa and other financial institutions are continuously implementing measures to enhance the overall payment infrastructure and ecosystem.
Among the key security recommendations provided by Visa:
- Securing devices with biometric authentication: Using fingerprint or facial recognition on smartphones and laptops provides stronger security than traditional PINs or passwords. This is particularly effective for digital payments.
- Using trusted websites: One way to identify an unsecured website is by checking if it does not start with “https://”. Such sites pose security risks. Similarly, users should always download apps from trusted app stores to avoid software vulnerabilities.
- Reading privacy policies carefully: While privacy policies may be long and complex, reading them carefully helps users understand what personal data is being collected and how it is used. Knowing which information is being shared can help avoid potential fraud.
- Taking immediate action in case of fraud: In case of an online scam, users should promptly contact their bank or payment service provider through designated helplines and report unauthorized transactions.
By following these security measures, consumers can enjoy safer online shopping and financial transactions. As digital fraudsters continue to evolve with new tactics, Safer Internet Day serves as a reminder to be more cautious and responsible while using the internet.
