How to bank securely online

Keep hackers out with our security tips

How to bank securely online

Keep hackers out with our security tips

Banking securely online ... what you can do

At KBC, we place great importance in how we make online banking with us as secure possible. But you have an important part to play as well.

Keep hackers out by taking some key security precautions:

  • Install software updates as soon as they're available.
  • Make sure your wireless (Wi-Fi) network is secure.
  • Do not install any illegal or unknown software.
  • Lock your computer when you're not using it so no one can gain easy access to your personal details and apps.

Our Cybersecurity Service includes virus and phishing protection software that protects your devices and your online activities from attack by cybercriminals.
Learn more.

How do I make my smartphone and tablet secure?

At KBC, we place great importance in how we make online banking with us as secure possible. But you have an important part to play as well.

Keep hackers out by taking some key security precautions:

  • Lock your smartphone and tablet so no one can gain easy access to your personal details and apps. Install only apps from the official Apple or Google app stores.
  • Do not use mobile devices that have been jailbroken or rooted as this eliminates many of the built-in security features of the mobile operating system.
  • Use only the latest versions of our mobile apps and your device’s operating system. 

Our Cybersecurity Service includes virus and phishing protection software that protects your devices and your online activities from attack by cybercriminals.
Learn more.

How to recognise a false e-mail

  • Scam e-mails often claim that there is a security problem with your debit card or bank account,
  • and you have to take urgent action.
  • They may tell you that you can fix the problem by opening an attachment or clicking a link, which takes you to a fake website where you have to enter personal details (like your debit card number or the codes generated by your card reader).

 

How to recognise a false website

  • Check the website address in your browser's address bar to make sure you're on a secure website like ours that starts with https:// (‘s’ stands for ‘secure’). In newer browsers, all or part of the address bar will also turn green.
  • Tip: save our secure 'KBC.be' website address as a favourite in your browser or enter the address manually.

Which is more secure … banking on your smartphone or on your computer?

The answer is simple: both are equally secure.

Our apps have several added security features that are easy to use and help keep you safe and secure while banking with us online or on the go.

  • We require you to initially register your smartphone or tablet with us (just once) so that only you can use it to bank with us.
  • You also have to set a personal PIN, which generates a unique digital signature each time you enter it.
  • After three incorrect attempts to enter your PIN, our apps lock you out.
  • They also log you out automatically if you haven't been using them for a few minutes.
  • All of your details are encrypted.
  • If we notice what might be a suspect transaction from your account, we'll call you right away. Our apps have built-in antivirus software that constantly checks your device for viruses targeted at banks.
What can you do? 

You, too, have a crucial part to play in ensuring that you bank securely with us using our mobile apps, including the need to:

  • Keep your PIN secret
  • Download only official KBC apps available from the Google Play, Apple and Windows Phone app stores
  • Install updates when they are available

How do I prevent fraudulent use of my mobile banking PIN?

  • Keep your five-digit PIN secret and never write it down anywhere or disclose it to anyone
  • Avoid obvious or easy-to-guess PINs like your date of birth or sequences of digits in ascending order, such as 12345.
  • Do not use a PIN that you already use elsewhere.
  • Make sure no one is looking over your shoulder when you’re entering your PIN.

How do I use the card reader securely?

  • Keep the codes you generate with your card reader secret (just like the PIN for your debit card) as they're the key to your accounts and unlocking your money. We will never ask you for them by e-mail, text message or phone.
  • Read messages and instructions on your card reader's screen carefully to verify the legitimacy of transactions.
    Beware of scams like one asking you to connect your accounts to a new security system while your card reader is showing that you're actually transferring a substantial sum of money.
  • Watch out if the log-in and payment-approval procedures suddenly change from what you're used to. Go no further if, for instance, you're asked to log in again or give additional verification that you don't recognise.

What should I do if I lose my smartphone?

Call us (24/7) and we will block all your KBC apps right away.

Lost both your phone and your debit card? Act without delay and call Card Stop immediately on +32 78 170 170. Learn more.

Leave nothing to chance for safe online banking

If you suspect fraud, inform us immediately

What do we do at KBC to secure online banking?

KBC Antivirus Software Package

Protect your computers, tablets and smartphones against viruses and unsafe websites.

How cyber criminals operate

Help me scams

Son or daughter suddenly sending you WhatsApp messages from a ‘new’ mobile number?

Mobile Phishing

Bank courier fraud

Fraudsters call you up  and ask you to cut your debit card in half for 'security reasons', supposedly to make it unfit for further use.