Imagine you’re halfway across the globe, sitting in a bustling café, finalizing a project that could change the trajectory of your career as a digital nomad. The adrenaline’s pumping and the ideas are flowing. But then, as you try to pay for your coffee, you find out your transaction was unsuccessful. A wave of unease washes over you. It’s not the impending deadline that’s got you worried – it’s the nagging thought that your online banking, the gateway to your financial world, might have been compromised.
Living as a digital nomad can be exhilarating. After all, who wouldn’t want to work and make money while traveling the world? However, the freedom of working from anywhere comes with its own set of challenges, and ensuring the safety of our online transactions is right at the top of that list. It’s not just about protecting your hard-earned cash; it’s about securing your peace of mind, allowing you to dive into your work and adventures without a second thought.
So, let’s dive in and discuss some easy ways to ensure secure transactions, no matter where your journey takes you.
Secure online banking tips for digital nomads
In this fast-paced, ever-connected world, the importance of strengthening your digital security cannot be overstated. Whether you’re sending invoices from a beach in Bali or managing expenses from a co-working space in Berlin, follow these tips to make sure your online transactions are safeguarded at all times.
1. Use strong, unique passwords
When it comes to setting passwords, it’s time to get creative. Mix up uppercase and lowercase letters, sprinkle in some numbers, and don’t forget to toss in a handful of special characters. This concoction creates a formidable barrier that hackers will struggle to breach. Moreover, you may want to steer clear of using easily guessable information like birthdays, addresses, or common words. They’re the low-hanging fruit of digital security.
If the thought of managing all these complex passwords feels overwhelming, consider using a premium password manager such as PureKeep. Think of it as your personal digital bouncer, ensuring only authorized guests get past the velvet rope.
2. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA)
While it may seem annoying at times, especially when you are traveling, you may want to consider two-factor authentication as your personal digital bodyguard. It’s an extra layer of protection that stands between your accounts and any potential threats. Therefore, as a digital nomad, you must activate 2FA on all your online banking accounts.
It’s also worth mentioning that while SMS-based codes are better than nothing, they’re not the most secure. Instead, it is recommended to use an authentication app – and because life has a way of throwing curveballs, always have backup authentication methods on standby. You never know when your primary one might need a coffee break.
Read more: 10 common scams digital nomads must be aware of
3. Regularly monitor your accounts
Keeping a check on multiple online banking accounts could be a hassle, but given that we’re living in the age of mass data breaches, doing so has become a necessity. It is important for digital nomads to keep a keen eye out for any unauthorized or suspicious activity. You can also set up SMS alerts for online transactions or if someone attempts to change your account settings without your consent.
It is important to trust your instincts. So, if something feels off, report it to your bank immediately. They’re there to help and have your back in these situations.
4. Use secure networks
Public WiFi networks are the digital equivalent of bustling city squares. While they are extremely convenient, they’re also a hotspot for potential eavesdropping. If you’re a digital nomad working remotely from an exotic location, you should avoid making sensitive transactions unless you’re connected to a secure network.
However, if you rely on public WiFi to get your work done, you should use a premium Virtual Private Network (VPN) such as PureVPN. It will shield your communication by encrypting your traffic, ensuring your online activities remain secure at all times. Using a VPN for mobile banking also keeps you safe from hackers prowling public networks for unsuspecting victims.
5. Keep your devices secure
Last but not least, ensure all your devices are armed with the latest antivirus and anti-malware software. Think of it as putting on a suit of digital armor. It is also important to only stick with trusted sources when downloading apps or software from Play Store or App Store. In addition, always stay on top of software updates. They’re like security patches that shore up any potential chinks in your digital armor, playing a vital role in strengthening your online privacy.
On a final note
For digital nomads, secure online transactions aren’t just a safety net – they’re the solid ground beneath their ever-shifting feet. It’s the difference between a free-spirited journey and a constant worry. So, if you’re a digital nomad who wants to throw yourself wholeheartedly into your craft and immerse in the global cultures, follow the tips above for safe online banking so you can explore, create, and truly live.
Stay connected to the PureVPN Blog to learn more about how to secure your digital lifestyle by using a VPN for mobile banking, traveling, remote working, and more.
Read more: Is VPN safe for online banking?