When you're using an unsecured or public network, it's best to stick to activities that don't involve sensitive data. If you need to access your mobile banking or another financial app, turn off your Wi-Fi while you do. You'll use up some of your data, but you'll be much more secure.
Only use secure wi-fi connections to access your bank account. Public wi-fi connections are often not secure, so it's important not to use them for banking or to make purchases. If you're out and about with a mobile or tablet, it's safer to use your 3G or 4G connection.
Online banking is typically safe. However, there are risks out there, and one of them is using public networks. If you need to get online, try to wait until you're on a trusted network—whether you're checking your bank account or the weather.
Mobile bank apps transmit data between your device and the bank's server. To do that without compromising your account security, your bank app needs to “verify” you by using your unique phone ID and account data. This gives hackers three access points to potentially breach your data and account: On your device.
A stable internet connection and a smartphone are required to use a mobile banking app.
But that doesn't mean your data is automatically prone to being leaked. Incidences of moderate-to-high risk are rare for all mobile users. Individual vulnerabilities are something to keep an eye on, but not a reason to panic. You definitely don't need to switch phones if you already have an Android.
Avoid using free, unsecured, or public Wi-Fi networks. Never use 'rooted' or 'jailbroken' mobile devices for net banking. Never download mobile applications from third-party websites. Use official application stores such as Apple iTunes, Google Play Store, OVI Store amongst others for the purpose.
Why Is Cellular Data More Secure? Connecting to a cellular network is absolutely more safe than using WiFi. Most WiFi hotspots aren't secure because the data sent over the internet isn't encrypted. When you use a secured WiFi, you can encrypt your data, but it's still less reliable and automatic than cellular signal.
So, is Mobile Banking Safer than Online Banking? Whether you choose mobile banking or online banking, you can be confident that your bank has invested in the security of these services. However, mobile banking is a little safer when it comes to security, mainly because this type of banking does not store any data.
Using hotel WiFi for banking can be risky due to the lack of security measures in public WiFi networks. Hackers can easily intercept sensitive information such as login credentials, credit card numbers, and other personal data.
Online banking vs mobile banking
All online banking operations are conducted via a bank website. To access accounts, users need an internet connection and a browser on their desktop, laptop, or mobile device. To use mobile banking, users need to install a dedicated banking app on their smartphones.
One advantage of doing online banking from a Wi-Fi hot spot is increased security.
It's best to avoid using online or mobile banking when you're on a public Wi-Fi network. If you must access online banking or mobile banking with public Wi-Fi, here are some tips to stay secure. Disable public file sharing. Look up how to do this for your operating system.
As a security measure, an Online Banking session will automatically "time-out" if you have not clicked on a page for 10 minutes. This security feature is intended to prevent another individual from viewing your account information while your computer is unattended.
Online banking is quick and convenient — but it comes with certain risks such as malware, phishing, credit card scams, fake apps, and more. We recommend you take the following measures to stay safe when banking online: Use a good password manager to help create a strong password and change it often.
Install an effective mobile anti-malware / anti-virus software on your smartphone and keep it updated. Be aware of shoulder surfers. Be extra careful while typing confidential information such as your account details and password on your mobile in public places. Do not download unwanted apps on your mobile.
It will use wifi if you are connected. when disconnected from wifi, cellular data will be use. You should disable cellular data if you do not sign up a data plan to get a bill shock. Both above answers are correct.
In settings, disable mobile data and if you still get Internet then you know. This also guarantees wifi only. Also if connected to wifi, when you drag down the notification bar, it will show wifi connected. Or, as op said, go to settings, click wifi and it will show you.
Transferring mobile data through a cellular network is much safer than using a public WiFi network. As mentioned, most of the time public hotspots aren't protected. Private WiFi networks, on the other hand, can be just as secure as cellular networks. Though, in some cases, they're still less reliable.
With a mobile banking app, you can check your account balances, access statements, track spending, make mobile deposits by taking pictures of checks, and even communicate directly with your bank.