For some time now, there has been a growing number of people ditching traditional money transfers in favour of their online counterparts. And while this might seem like a dangerous method of payment where a number of pitfalls and problems await the ordering party, the convenience of an online transfer will convince even the biggest sceptics of this form of payment.
It cannot be denied that traditional money transfers - i.e. transcribing the data by hand and delivering it to the post office or bank yourself along with the money - are a less convenient, albeit more secure, form of sending money. However, it is also possible to do this safely over the Internet. All you need to do is observe certain precautions.
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Use proven equipment and networks
This is the first step to making a secure online transfer. It is essential that you use a device that you use every day and are sure is not infected to make it. Remember never to log in to your bank on devices at work or in internet cafes. Be sure to log out of your account when you have finished sending the transfer. 
The same is true of the web. When wanting to make a transfer, it is best to do so from the comfort of your home, where you have the ability to connect to your internet network. Using haphazardly searched wireless networks can result in your data falling into the wrong hands and being used inappropriately.
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Verify the site and data
Before you start logging into your account, make sure you're on the right page - ideally you should type the bank's address into your browser every time. Also avoid searching for the bank's tab on Google (this is a great way for criminals to plant a fake site that copies your details). Also make sure that the site is certified and that the connection is secure before you enter your details.
In the next step, carefully verify the data you enter. Make sure at all times that the login process is correct. If something worries you or catches your attention, leave the site immediately and contact your bank. Remember never to save your login details on any device!
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Check the account number carefully
The most important information of the entire transfer is the account number to which you are making it. Nowadays, it will be rare that you will fill in such data manually - a 'copy-paste' operation is usually used. When doing this, check that the account number has not changed. However, we recommend that, just to be on the safe side, you rewrite the dozen or so digits yourself - this is a more secure solution.
In most cases, the execution of the transfer requires confirmation by SMS code. To do this, the payer receives a message with an activation code, which must be entered on the bank's website where the transfer is made. However, before you do this, check that the account number from the SMS matches the number to which you are making the transfer.
Hackers have many opportunities to disrupt the transfer process and divert money to their own account. One of them is precisely to swap the account number at such an unexpected moment. So, in order to make a secure online transfer, you need to verify this information at least twice.
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Use anti-virus software and avoid untrusted sites
If you're worried that your device may be infected, it's essential to download an anti-virus programme (only from a safe and legal source, of course). Scan your device from time to time to verify its security. Also, avoid downloading insecure files and applications from untrusted sources. Always check that they have the necessary security certificate. When using the Internet, also remember not to visit high-risk websites.
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Remember your login data
When it comes to the data you use to log in to your bank's website, the best storage facility is... your memory. Try not to save your password and login anywhere - and certainly don't do it on your computer or phone! Keep your data in a safe place where you are sure that no one can find it and use it to access your account.
Secure online transfers - it's possible!
While it might seem that the whole procedure for making a secure online transfer is complicated, it can actually be boiled down to one rule: EXERCISE DUE CAUTION. First of all, you need to verify all the information - even several times if you feel the need. It's still far less work than filling in forms and a trip to the post office!
