ATM PIN: These numbers are frequently targeted in cybercrime! Never use them as your ATM PIN..
ATM cards and their PINs are becoming the easiest targets in the growing number of cybercrimes. Hackers first try PINs that are easy to guess. Therefore, choosing a 4-digit ATM PIN should be done carefully. Cybersecurity experts believe that choosing the wrong PIN can empty your bank account in seconds. Here's a list of ATM PINs that weaken your cybersecurity. Learn smart tips for choosing a secure PIN and avoiding fraud.
1. Which PINs are the most dangerous?
Some PINs are easily guessed by hackers because they are very common and easy to guess. Here are some numbers you should never use as your ATM PIN:
Sequential numbers: Sequential or repeated numbers like 1234, 1111, 2222, 3333, 0000, 5555 are the easiest targets for hackers. Cybersecurity research has found that these PINs are the most frequently used and therefore the first targets.
Reverse numbers: Numbers in reverse order, such as 4321 and 9876, are equally vulnerable. They should also be discarded immediately.
These numbers are so common that hackers try these combinations first, and their chances of success are very high.
2. Don't make your birthday your PIN? This is the biggest mistake!
Many people choose their own or their loved ones' birth dates (e.g., 1308 if their birthday is August 13th, or 1511 if it's November 15th) or their birth year (e.g., 1999, 2000) as their PIN. This is a serious mistake that can put your bank account at risk.
Easy availability of data: Your date of birth, year, and other personal information are easily available from social media profiles, identity cards (e.g., Aadhaar, PAN card), or other documents.
Hackers' Guessability: Hackers can easily guess your PIN using such personal data. Once they know your date of birth, it becomes very easy for them to guess your PIN. Therefore, avoid using your or anyone else's date of birth as a PIN.
3. Are mobile numbers or vehicle numbers suitable for PINs?
Numbers like mobile numbers, vehicle numbers, the first or last digits of your Aadhaar number, or home addresses are also not suitable for PINs. Cybersecurity reports say that hacking these PINs often takes seconds.
Public Information: Your mobile number is often registered with friends, relatives, and various services. Vehicle numbers are public, and Aadhaar numbers are also used in many places.
Easy to Guess: These numbers are very easy to guess because they are somehow connected to you and are easily available. Hackers can use these details to access your PIN. Stay away from such numbers immediately.
4. How to Choose a Secure PIN? Here are some smart ways!
Choosing a strong and secure PIN is crucial to keeping your money safe. Here are some ways:
Choose a random number: The best PIN is one that is random and difficult to guess. For example, numbers like 4892 or 3927. These are numbers that have no direct connection to you, but you can easily remember them.
Your PIN should be easy for you to remember, but its meaning or pattern should not be understood by others. You can choose numbers that are associated with a specific event but are not public.
Take these precautions to avoid fraud:
Change your PIN every 6 to 12 months. This reduces the risk of your old PIN being leaked or hacked.
Never share your PIN with anyone, be it a friend, family member, or bank employee. Banks never ask for your PIN over the phone or email.
Don't write down your PIN anywhere in your wallet, purse, or mobile phone. If these items are lost, your PIN will also become vulnerable.
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) also recommends keeping a different PIN for each card and changing it regularly.
When entering your PIN at an ATM or POS machine, always cover the keypad with your other hand or wallet to prevent anyone from seeing it.
Avoid using any suspicious ATM. If you notice any tampering with the card slot or keypad, do not use it.
Always use two-factor authentication (OTP or other verification) when making online transactions. Make purchases only on secure websites (https://).
Don't click on any unknown emails, messages, or links that ask for your bank account or ATM PIN information. These could be phishing attacks.
If you have even the slightest suspicion of ATM fraud or notice any unusual transaction, immediately complain to your bank and cyber cell (helpline number 1930).
Disclaimer: This content has been sourced and edited from Zee Business. While we have made modifications for clarity and presentation, the original content belongs to its respective authors and website. We do not claim ownership of the content.
