Top safety tips for customers regarding the .bank.in migration

Top safety tips for customers regarding the .bank.in migration
 

While banking is convenient, we also want our money safe and leverage banking services that make our lives easier without stressing. That’s why safety has been paramount among financial institutions.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has taken this a step ahead with the .bank.in migration. It aims to operationalise the domain change through the Institute of Development and Research in Banking Technology (IDRBT), under the authority of the National Internet Exchange of India (NIXI).

As per this directive, all Indian banks were required to switch their domains to .bank.in by 31st October 2025. The directive was proposed to improve the online banking infrastructure. 

.bank.in safety tips to continue seamless banking during domain migration
 

.bank.in domain migration is a step to add an extra layer of security to your digital banking experience. While banks undergo this shift, cybercriminals may try to take advantage of the situation. You may notice phishing and spam attempts. Staying alert and smartly moving through the process can make all the difference.

Here are practical .bank.in safety tips to help you navigate the transition smoothly:

· Use secure connections
 

When you’re accessing your sensitive banking information, it is better to do it over a private and secure internet connection. Avoid using public Wi-Fi when logging into your bank’s website. Cybercriminals often target such unsecured networks, as it is an easier ground to get access to multiple users.

· Update your bookmarks and apps
 

Your old, bookmarked bank domains will redirect to the new .bank.in after the secure banking migration. Nonetheless, it helps to update your saved bookmarks and mobile banking apps. This way, you can ensure you have guaranteed access to your bank’s upgraded domain. Also, keeping your banking app updated is, in general, a critical security measure.

· Spot phishing and spoof websites
 

Taking advantage of the migration, fraudsters may target you with phishing messages that mimic your bank using similar-looking domains. Double-checking the URL will often reveal anything fishy and help you spot mimics. Make sure the domain ends with .bank.in and begins with https://. Also, beware of messages asking for login details, OTPs, or personal data. Banks never request such information, especially unprompted OTPs.  

· Enable two-factor authentication
 

Sure, you might have a strong password, but that is sometimes not enough. If you want to conduct secure transactions during the .bank.in migration, adding an extra verification helps. This includes one-time passwords, mobile confirmation, biometric verification, or a security question. With two-factor authentication, you can reduce the risk of unauthorised access even if your password is compromised.

· Monitor your accounts regularly
 

Take stock of your account activity regularly. Make sure to have alerts activated for transactions, withdrawals, and balance changes. You may also access your account statements from time to time to spot any unusual activity early. If you notice anything suspicious during the .bank.in domain migration, contact the bank representatives promptly.

· Stay informed
 

The .bank.in is a secure banking migration effort to build a more resilient digital banking infrastructure. Likewise, banks may undergo other updates in the future. Staying informed about such steps by following RBI circulars and trusted media helps you prepare consciously and let go of unnecessary stress.

Final words
 

The secure banking migration to .bank.in is a step towards creating a more reliable digital banking experience. While the RBI and IDRBT work on improving the infrastructure for secure transactions through .bank.in, your everyday vigilance is also critical. Following the .bank.in safety tips like staying alert, verifying domains, etc., helps you transact confidently, no matter the change.

IDFC FIRST Bank has already migrated to https://www.idfcfirst.bank.in/ as per RBI guidelines. Click here to know more.