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As digital financial services become increasingly popular, so do the risks associated with them. Demat accounts have simplified the way we manage financial assets, eliminating the need for physical share certificates. However, this convenience comes with the threat of fraud. This is a blog that we will use to draw attention to the various types of demat account fraud, including unauthorised trading, phishing scams, and malware attacks, detailing how they can compromise your investments and the ways to protect yourself.
As the old saying goes, convenience often comes hand-in-hand with risks. Demat accounts have revolutionised the way we hold and manage financial assets. Long gone are the days of worrying about losing physical share certificates. However, as online financial services gain popularity, the threat of demat account fraud also rises. This guide provides traders with the knowledge and tools required for safeguarding their demat accounts and protecting their investments from risks posed by scammers.
Demat account fraud refers to any unauthorised activity that attempts to manipulate your demat account for illegitimate profit. Here are some of the ways that fraudsters can do this:
Unauthorised Trading
This is a type of demat account fraud where your login details are compromised and fraudsters start trading your shares without your permission. This has the potential to lead to heavy losses, depending on the time period and the amount of your money that the scammers have access to.
Phishing Scams
Phishing is a common form of demat account fraud, where fraudulent emails are sent to people, coercing them to reveal sensitive information such as their login details or OTPs. It uses fake messages that replicate existing emails you receive from your Depository Participant (DP) or other financial institutions, convincing you to ‘login again’. Phishing emails seem urgent or offer false investment opportunities.
Malware Attacks
Once you download malicious software unknowingly, it has the ability to steal valuable credentials such as login details, while also putting your computer at risk of being hacked. This includes things such as keyloggers, which can be used to record your keystrokes when you type in passwords or access your private files; and spyware, which is used to steal personal information. All of these pose a potential threat to perpetuate demat account fraud.
It is indeed essential that you do not leave your demat account unsecured. Here are some ways to ensure that your account is protected from such illicit activity:
Strong Credentials
A good password is ideally one that contains at least 12 characters (one uppercase and one lowercase), one number and one special symbol. Your password should not be easily guessable. It should not comprise words from a dictionary, or a pet’s name or birthday. You should make up a new password on your own. If you must write it down, do so using a password manager.
Turn on Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Two-factor verification, that requests a second code of verification (or an OTP), is usually sent to the user’s registered mobile phone and/or email ID before they are able to log in. Most of the DPs provide 2FA as an option – make sure you turn it on.
Avoid Public Wi-Fi
Public Wi-Fi networks are inherently insecure, and hackers can potentially intercept your login information if you access your account on such networks, and use it to perpetuate demat account fraud. It is best to use a secure, private internet connection for all your demat account activities.
Account Monitoring
Develop a habit of regularly reviewing your demat account statements and transaction history. Look for any discrepancies or unfamiliar transactions. Even a small unauthorised purchase could be a sign of attempted demat account fraud. Furthermore, you should not hesitate to report any suspicious activity to your DP as soon as you notice it. Early detection can help minimise potential losses. You can also set up SMS or email alerts for account activity. These notifications can keep you informed about any transactions taking place in your account, allowing you to identify any unauthorised activity promptly.
Choose a Reputable DP
When opening a Demat account, you must choose a well-established DP with a proven track record of security and customer service. Look for DPs with a strong online reputation and positive user reviews. You should make sure your DP is registered with SEBI (Securities and Exchange Board of India). SEBI registration signifies a required level of compliance with regulatory standards and best practices. You should ideally consider DPs that offer features like two-factor authentication, data encryption, and regular security audits.
Disclaimer: Investments in the securities market are subject to market risk, read all related documents carefully before investing.
This content is for educational purposes only. Securities quoted are exemplary and not recommendatory.
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