The city streets are bustling with crowds during the festive season. Whether you are making a UPI transaction on your smartphone or opening your laptop for work at a hotel or café, the danger of someone surreptitiously accessing your gadgets in any public place, or stealing vital data or treasured passwords, is very real. And even though we know this, we often let our guard down. Prepare yourself with the dos and don'ts to keep safe.
When withdrawing cash at an ATM counter, thoroughly scan your surroundings for potential onlookers. If there are two machines, shield the keypad with your hand while using the ATM to prevent adjacent individuals from discerning your finger movements. Although most banks have upgraded their ATMs, older models remain susceptible to skimming devices and hidden cameras that can surveil card information. Exercise caution during card swipes. Crucially, don't forget to press the cancel button after completing your transaction.
It's advisable to abstain from online transactions in cyber cafés. If necessary, remain vigilant of anyone standing or sitting behind you, potentially observing your actions. The trend of managing office or business tasks from laptops in cafés or restaurants is now in vogue. Be wary of nearby individuals attempting to peek at your laptop or tablet. Should you need to step away momentarily while working, it's imperative to lock your device's screen.
When settling bills with cards at shopping malls, restaurants, or stores, be alert to anyone potentially observing your PIN entry. Refrain from verbally sharing your PIN with waitstaff or cashiers during card payments at restaurants or elsewhere. Many cash counters now operate under CCTV surveillance. Consequently, use your other hand to obscure the POS machine's screen while entering your PIN.
In public spaces, we often find ourselves divulging crucial information like computer passwords or ATM PINs to colleagues or acquaintances over mobile phones for work or business purposes. Be mindful that nearby individuals may overhear such sensitive details. Vigilance in this regard is paramount.
When compelled to type sensitive information on your smartphone or laptop in public, attempt to position yourself with your back to a wall, minimizing the risk of covert surveillance. Strive to secure all apps and accounts on your gadgets with two-factor authentication, creating a formidable barrier against potential fraudsters.
