Tips for Safe Online Banking

Of all the questions that have been asked about online banking, the most common question would be, "Is online banking safe?” here are some tips to make your online banking safe:

• Never make any online banking transactions in public terminals like Internet cafes.
• The risk of interception when using a wireless connection is much higher – make sure you are aware of this. Do only if you are absolutely certain of the security of the connection.
• Make sure that your spy-ware and anti-virus programs are updated and it is wise to perform regular system scans.
• Never access a banking site through a link. Instead, type out the address into the browser bar or you can save the address in your favorites
• Never open any other sites when you are logged into an online banking site. Make sure that there is only one window open.
• Choose your user ID and password carefully – it shouldn’t be easy for others to guess. Change your password regularly.
• Update your computer software regularly.
• Once you are done with your Internet banking, make sure you log out and close the browser window.
• Never give you password on the Internet (through emails) or over the phone to anyone.
• Unless the bank in question verifies it, don’t ever trust a PDF payment proof, as these types of documents can easily be manipulated by frauds.

However, if you do run into any trouble with any of the online features of your account, you can go to the bank for help and will get an immediate response for it. Most banks completely separate their online services from their person-to-person customer servicing, ensuring that you will call their Internet-banking support team.

Swine Flu - Spreading Rapidly Across The World

Swine flu linked to hundreds of deaths since its detection in March, which now is affecting each and every country. The World Health Organization declared the first influenza pandemic in four decades in June 09.

Swine flu caused more than 800 deaths, and though the WHO no longer provides figures on the number of infected people worldwide, swine flu has spread to 160 of the organization’s 193 member states.

In addition to the death number, lives have become miserable, including school closings, changes in church rituals and warnings that vulnerable Muslims should not embark on the pilgrimage to Mecca.

The great fear among experts is that the virus can convert into a more virulent form and leave much damage in its wake. The disease is spreading in both southern and northern hemispheres.

The virus was first uncovered in Mexico and combines swine, human and avian influenza. Most deaths have occurred in the Americas, with the United States, Argentina and Mexico recording the highest number of fatalities.