The eSafety Commissioner (eSafety) has just released a new course on mobile banking to help older Australians manage their money at a time and place convenient to them. Having this skill will help them maintain physical distancing and minimise the need to go to a branch, which has become increasingly important during the pandemic.
Over 60% of seniors undertake online banking at least monthly but many are still reticent to, mainly due to security concerns. This course is vital to increasing their confidence to bank safely on their smartphone or tablet.
eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant said the new course will teach older Australians how to safely set up and use mobile banking, pay bills and transfer money.
'Mobile banking is a great way for seniors to adapt to the new normal, physical distance and do their banking more easily,' she said.
The course has a strong focus on safety, providing older Australians with a range of tips, including on safely downloading mobile banking apps, creating strong passwords, using two-factor authentication and being aware of potential scams.
Many older Australians may worry when they begin mobile banking that they could cause an issue with their accounts. To counteract this, the innovative, faux online bank, Squirrel Bank, will return as part of eSafety's offering so that learners can practise their new skills like transferring money, adding a new biller and paying a bill without any risk.
'Using a mobile banking app doesn't mean you can't still visit bank branches and conduct your banking in person,' Inman Grant said. "However, it does let you access information quickly outside of banking hours and so much more.'
Visit the Be Connected website to see the course.
The Be Connected website, beconnected.esafety.gov.au, managed by eSafety, provides free information, learning modules and webinars designed to empower the safe use of the internet and digital technology. Be Connected is a joint initiative between the Department of Social Services, as the lead agency, eSafety and Good Things Foundation.
