Mobile banking is a handy way to manage your money on the go, and there’s no denying its popularity. It’s estimated that, by 2021, over 3 billion people worldwide will use mobile banking.¹

Of course, increased mobile activity means even more reason to be vigilant about security. The Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC), which leads the Australian Government’s efforts to develop and improve cyber security protections, suggests that the risk of cyber-attacks is increasing, due to the country’s reliance on new technology such as the 5G mobile network.²

So what can you do to keep your mobile and your hard-earned cash secure?

5 ways to monitor your mobile security

1. Know how to identify phishing scams

A phishing scam is an attempt by a cybercriminal to obtain your personal info by pretending to be a trustworthy person or organisation, such as your bank. The scammer will typically contact you via email, phone or social media to ask you for information, such as usernames, passwords or credit card details. They may try and trick you into clicking a link or downloading a file that spreads malware on your device. Trusted institutions, like Suncorp Bank, will never request personal information from you in this way.

How to identify and report scams

2. Limit your activity on public wi-fi networks

Public wi-fi networks are exactly that: public.

When using public wi-fi, it’s important to be vigilant and limit your mobile activity, because the connection is unencrypted and unsecure. Cyber criminals can hack the network to intercept your data, such as your mobile banking login details, or install malware on your smartphone.

If you know you’ll need to use secure apps when you’re out and about, you could consider using a proxy server or VPN to hide your IP address.

3. Be aware of fake apps

Scammers use fake banking apps to phish for your personal details. Though these apps don’t often get past Apple and Google’s rigorous app vetting process, it has happened in the past. So, when downloading your bank’s mobile app, be sure you’re downloading the official version.

4. Check for malware

It can be tricky to tell if your device has been affected by malware because it often runs in the background. Signs of a security breach include:

• a fast draining battery
• apps, or your device, crashing
• increased data use, without reason, and
• pop-up ads.

If you suspect your phone has been infected, you could think about installing anti-malware software to remove it. Another method for malware removal involves seeking support from an authorised repair store, or restoring your device’s factory settings. If you try the latter option, don’t forget to back up the data on it.

5. Use strong passwords

Setting up your Suncorp Bank App with a fingerprint, Face ID^ß, password or PIN can help to ensure its security. And remember to log off as soon as you’ve finished using it.

How the Suncorp Bank App protects your privacy

Secure access

With the Suncorp Bank App, you’ll create a 4-digit PIN, Touch or Face ID^ß profile to log in securely. If you’re setting a PIN, make sure you don’t choose one that’s easy to guess. Avoid including sensitive or personal information in it.

Temporary locks on Visa Debit cards

If you’ve lost your Visa Debit card, or you suspect it’s been stolen, you can use the Suncorp Bank App to lock that card immediately. All card payments, including recurring payments, will be declined and if the card is inserted into an ATM it’ll be retained. You should also report your card as lost or stolen to us as soon as possible so we can arrange a new card for you.

If you’ve temporarily locked your card using the app and haven’t reported it lost or stolen to us yet, you can unlock it at any time. When you do so, it’ll be reactivated immediately.

Fast responses to suspected fraud

At Suncorp Bank, we’ve established a 24-hour real time detection capability and a dedicated Financial Crimes team who use advanced technology to safeguard our customers from potential fraud. We also work closely with the ACSC. 

Your online security is important to us. That’s why we’re committed to providing you with a safe banking environment. So, as long as you adhere to the Suncorp Bank App Terms and Conditions, we’ll guarantee your mobile security. You need to keep your secret codes, such as your app PIN, private so they don’t contribute to a loss of money (and you’ll need to let us know immediately if you notice one).

Discover the Suncorp Bank App

Published 01 November 2021

¹ The Balance: Best security practices for mobile banking

² ACSC Annual Cyber Threat Report - July 2019 to June 2020

Internet connection is required when using the Suncorp Bank App. Normal data charges from your internet service provider will apply.