Since when did we have to worry about having our identity stolen, hacked, – or worse – our banking information stolen or funds removed.

[ https://www.identityguard.com/news/risks-of-using-mobile-banking-apps ]

Tell you a little insightful story: Not long ago I talked to a security specialist at one of the largest Banks in Canada. I mentioned that I would never have a so-called banking app on my smartphone or perform any financial transactions on a smart phone. He congratulated me and told me I get a special medal from this Bank. Enough said.

For the past almost 30 years I do my banking online using my PC which also has a pretty safe security system installed. Never had any money stolen or bank accounts hacked into. (‘Knock wood.’)

Fact is, that since the Internet became the most widely accepted method of communication and getting things done (or getting things undone), security breaches have skyrocketed, so have the companies who provide and sell data security systems. Now including AI controlled secondary software, which is even more easily hacked into by those who actually write those AI programs, using a simple code.

When I got my last – very sophisticated – mobile smartphone, of course the provider’s bank app was preinstalled. First thing for me was to remove all preinstalled apps not needed including the banking app. [I do my banking on a secure PC.] And go through all the settings that are automatically installing or re-installing apps.

I agree, it seems easy to do things on the mobile phone while about and not at a desk, but much more difficult to undo mistakes and recover from (sensitive) data breaches.

[NOTE. The Internet is listing and advertising thousands of tech companies who are selling and installing cybersecurity systems. No need to mention the best here. Important is to know which devices are best suited to install an enhanced data security program.  I suspect, not a mobile phone.].

Talking about cybersecurity software: WARNING [ https://www.security.org/antivirus/totalav/ ] – the website selling this Total##  antivirus software is attacking users by email, telling them “bla, bla, bla … received hundreds of complaints, bla, bla, bla – about you”  (obviously SPAM). This is meant for anybody who is not smart enough and hooks up with their link. I personally never had anything to do with this antivirus product !