Online international money transfers have risen in popularity with the increasing digitization of the world’s workforce. Security is of the utmost importance when transmitting money overseas, which has long been an issue. It is common knowledge that there are certain security issues in the internet world, and it is becoming more important to avoid financial fraud and secure data protection in the rapidly expanding world of digital money transfers. This article will walk you through the steps of completing a money transfer in a safe and secure manner.

Look for reliable platforms

Users who pay money online are putting themselves in danger of having their information intercepted and stolen due to insecure browsers and servers. When this happens, it’s because the provider’s site doesn’t have an active or valid SSL certificate. A reliable platform must have an active SSL certificate (you can verify this by looking for a little padlock icon to the left of your browser’s search bar). So, for example, if you want to send money to the Philippines from Canada, you should look for platforms that are well-known in the industry, have a solid reputation, and are governed by local laws and regulations. Use the most available protection while transferring money abroad, and be very careful about which platform you trust with your passwords and other login information.

Beware of identity theft and fraud

This happens when someone else makes purchases or obtains services in your name without your knowledge or consent. Thieves and fraudsters may circumvent the login process by gaining access to sensitive information, such as passwords and answers to security questions. If someone claims to be from your money transfer service but can’t prove it, don’t give them any information. Make sure there are safeguards in place, such as session timeouts and multi-factor authentication.

Use safe payment methods

Always use encrypted and fraud-protected payment methods when transferring money online. As long as you’re utilizing a trustworthy provider, you may use your credit card, bank account, or digital wallet without worry. Encryption and other security measures should be used to safeguard all monetary transactions.

Try bank transfers

There are two primary types of bank transfers: wire transfers and automated clearing house (ACH) transactions. In both cases, funds are transferred from one bank to another before finally being deposited into an account. Legal documentation and identification verification procedures are often necessary to create a bank account in most countries.

With these measures in place, scammers will have a tougher time taking advantage of wire transfers. The SWIFT network, which is used by banks to transport money across the globe through wire transfers, is generally deemed secure. You should be aware of the increased exchange rates and the fact that many banks impose costs for transferring money overseas if you want to transfer money via a bank account.

How are transfers kept safe?

SSL certificate

The website of the money transfer operator often gives your browser a copy of its SSL certificate while your browser seeks to establish a connection with the website. The website sets up an SSL encrypted session of 128 or 256 bits upon verification to guarantee a safe connection from beginning to end throughout the transaction.

Two-factor authentication

This is a login security mechanism that requires not only a password but also some kind of biometric verification or token. It’s a plus in terms of safety.

Verified by Visa

Verified by Visa is a password-protected authentication technique used to verify the cardholder’s identity. This pertains to businesses that take Visa debit and credit cards.

Mastercard secure code

When making a purchase with a Mastercard, the issuing bank sends the cardholder a one-time password by text message.

Safeguarding account

Companies engaged in money transfer services are obliged by law to keep client funds in a separate account from company funds. In this way, money from customers is safer.

Additional security tips

Passwords and other sensitive information for online accounts, such as those with service providers or financial institutions, should be kept secret.

Be wary of spam or phishing emails. Customers should learn to spot and remove spam and other dubious communications from unknown senders. Email scams may come in many forms, from pretending to be a friend in need to promising you millions in exchange for a little fee to assist them in transferring the cash.

Protect your personal identification papers by keeping them safe and out of the reach of anyone who isn’t authorized to have access to them.

Stay away from free public Wi-Fi. When using a public network to make an online purchase, you risk having your identity stolen. Private networks that require a password should always be used.

Protect your device with anti-virus software. Applications like Kaspersky, Norton, and F-Secure are just a few examples of excellent options.

What to do in case of a scam?

There are two things you may do to prevent further financial damage and perhaps get your money back if you think you’ve been scammed.

Your initial step should be to get in touch with your financial institution or money transfer agency. Send a message to their support team explaining the matter. The sooner you contact the emergency or hotline number, the sooner they can attempt to reverse the transaction.

Step two is to report the incident to local law enforcement, an anti-fraud agency, and your country’s top officials. Whether or not you have received your money, you should still report the scam. Although it’s quite improbable that you’ll receive your money back, keeping a written record of the occurrence can help law enforcement investigate and track such crimes in the future.

Money transfers, whether domestic or international, are evolving to make use of new technologies. New online money transfer providers are progressively gaining market share from traditional cash-based transfer operators and bank transfers. Thankfully, they are now safer than ever before because of improved security measures and stricter regulations. Prioritizing the safety of money transfers should be a top concern for everyone sending or receiving money, as this is one of the ways to keep yourself away from scammers and other frauds.

Michael