Online‑bankieren veilig gebruiken: de belangrijkste regels

Direct access to your bank

Access your online banking only through the banking app or by manually typing or using a saved bookmark for the official address. Never via a link in an email, SMS, or search ad – fake bank pages can even appear in search results.

Read approvals carefully

Whether it's an in-app approval, TAN generator, or security code: Always read exactly what you are approving before confirming. If you see a transfer, a new device, or a card payment you did not initiate, stop immediately. Scammers often disguise transfers as a "security check" or a "chargeback".

The most common tactics

• **Fake bank employee on the phone:** The displayed number may look genuine but is actually spoofed. The caller asks for an approval to supposedly stop fraud. Real bank employees never ask for codes or approvals.
• **Message: "Your account will be blocked":** The link leads to a fake login page.
• **"New security procedure":** You are asked to set up an app again via link or phone call – in reality, attackers are linking their own device to your account.
• **Remote access:** Alleged support wants access to your computer while you are logging into your banking.

Basic protection in five points

• Keep your phone, computer, and banking app up to date.
• Use a unique, long password specifically for banking, which you do not use anywhere else.
• Lock your phone with a PIN or fingerprint.
• Enable notifications for every transaction so you immediately spot anything unfamiliar.
• Set a daily limit for transfers that fits your daily routine.

Banking on the go

In public Wi-Fi networks – in a café, hotel, or train – you cannot know who is operating the network. A VPN encrypts your connection so that no one can eavesdrop or redirect you unnoticed. Even better: Use your mobile data network instead of open Wi-Fi when banking on the go.

In case something happens?

• Call your bank immediately or block your card and access – in Germany, this is available 24/7 via the emergency blocking hotline 116 116.
• Change your banking password from a clean device.
• Secure evidence and file a report with the police.
• You will find all the steps to check off on our First Aid page.