Stay Safe Online: Never Use Public Wi-Fi for Banking

Public networks, like the ones in cafes, malls, or airports, can be risky. Hackers can use them to steal your personal information including passwords, OTPs, and bank details, without you knowing.

At CIMB Bank PH, your security matters. That’s why we remind you to always stay cautious when managing your money online.

Three reasons why you should avoid banking on public Wi-Fi:

• Others can see your activity: On public networks, hackers can monitor your online behavior and steal sensitive information like your username, password, or OTP.

• You might connect to a fake Wi-Fi network: Some attackers create “free Wi-Fi” networks that look real, but are designed to steal data.

• You’re more exposed: Public Wi-Fi rarely has strong encryption. This makes it easy for cybercriminals to slip in and take your information without you knowing.

What to do instead:

• Use mobile data when banking: It’s more secure than shared Wi-Fi and much harder to intercept.

• Wait until you’re on a trusted network: Only log in to your bank account when you're connected to your private, password-protected Wi-Fi.

• Don’t enter any sensitive info on public Wi-Fi: That includes passwords, OTPs, or account numbers even if the site looks legit.

• Avoid opening bank-related links or emails: While on public Wi-Fi, don’t click anything involving your account or financial activity.

• If you’ve already used public Wi-Fi to access your bank, act fast: Change your password and report any suspicious activity right away via the CIMB Help Center.

Public Wi-Fi is convenient but your banking should always be private. Stay protected by thinking twice before you connect. REMEMBER: Cybersecurity is a shared responsibility.

If you’ve ever used public Wi-Fi for banking and notice any malicious activity in your account, please do not hesitate to call our Customer Care Team by dialing #2462 (#CIMB) on your mobile phone. If you're currently not in the Philippines, please call +632 8 924 2462 (924-CIMB) or email us at hello@cimb.com

Stay safe and bank safely and securely from home with CIMB Bank!

CIMB Bank Philippines Inc. is regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. You may contact the BSP Financial Consumer Protection Department at (+632) 8708-7087 or consumeraffairs@bsp.gov.ph.