India’s digital payments landscape has witnessed growth over the last decade, leading to the country emerging as a global leader in this space.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is marking a milestone this year with the fifth edition of the Digital Payments Awareness Week, from March 10 to 16, which aims to promote and accelerate the adoption of safe and secure digital payment methods.

As we celebrate the vision of a digitally empowered India, Mastercard has shared a list of the top 5 habits that can ensure a secure digital payment experience in 2025 and beyond.

Use strong passwords and 2-factor authentication

In today’s digital age, passwords are the first line of defense against cyber threats. However, weak passwords and inadequate authentication measures continue to be the most exploited vulnerabilities by bad cyber actors.

Using strong, unique passwords for all payment apps and updating them regularly is crucial to prevent unauthorised access.

Additionally, enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second verification step, such as a one-time password (OTP) or biometrics, to establish identity.

Regularly update passwords and PINs

To ensure secure and seamless digital payments, one should also regularly update passwords and PINs for digital payment apps and wallets.

To maintain optimal security, one should keep changing these every 60-90 days, use unique and complex combinations for each app, and avoid reusing credentials across multiple accounts.

Use secure payment gateways

When making digital payments, it’s vital to always use secure payment gateways to protect your sensitive financial information. Secure payment gateways act as fortified tunnels, safeguarding your information from lurking cyber threats.

One should specifically opt for payment gateways that have robust security measures in place, such as encryption, two-factor authentication, and secure socket layer (SSL) certificates, making it virtually indecipherable for malicious actors.

Stay up to date with cyber frauds

As digital payments continue to evolve, so do the tactics used by scammers to exploit users. Fraudsters are exploring new ways to steal sensitive financial information.

One of the most common scams is phishing, where cybercriminals send fake emails and payment requests or SMS pretending to be from legitimate banks or payment platforms, tricking users into revealing their passwords, OTPs, or card details.

Additionally, malicious apps and fake websites are often designed to capture payment credentials when unsuspecting users enter their details. Users should keep themselves informed about these threats so that they can protect themselves from cybercriminals.

Routinely monitor accounts

Lastly, one should keep a close watch on their financial transactions, especially since scams and unauthorized transactions can occur without immediate notice. By regularly checking your account balances and transaction history, one can identify any unusual activity, such as duplicate charges, unexpected deductions, or unauthorized purchases.

Additionally, setting up real-time notifications can act as an early warning system. Most banks and payment apps allow users to enable SMS, email, or push notifications to receive instant updates on account activity.