Scotia banks on new technology

Scotiabank bank customers have been given more power over the management and monitoring of their accounts with the introduction of the bank’s latest digital service.

In response to customers’ continued concerns about security and monitoring of their account activities, the Canadian-based bank has launched its Scotiabank Alerts platform.

Manager of Customer Experience Sharon Small explained that the new service, which is accessible via the Scotiabank Mobile App and Scotia Online banking platform, provides customers with the ability to receive notifications on any activity on their account while a transaction is being performed.

“So if I go and swipe my card at the ATM and receive cash, immediately on my phone I would receive a notification saying a withdrawal was made from your checking or savings account, is this you, if not call this number’. It really enables people to manage their accounts and credit cards,” said Small.

“So if someone was trying to use your account, with Scotiabank Alerts you will know immediately,” she added.

She explained that the service allows individuals to “turn off” their credit card in the case of it being lost or stolen.

The alerts are free and individuals are also able to customize the alerts, including setting the method of notification – email or app notification.

“It gives the customer more power. They really have more control over how they use their online account and how they view their transactions. They really have more power in the palm of their hands because you can do this at home, you can check it while you are at work,” she said.

Small said Scotiabank Alerts formed part of the bank’s thrust to encourage more digital use while ensuring customers remain safe.

“We have to apply technologies that are advanced because wherever we are, we need to be secure,” said Small.

The Scotiabank sensitization efforts began today at the Broad Street location and Small said the reception has been “very positive”.

The bank will continue its education drive over the next week across its branch network with additional education activities to follow.

“One of the reasons we are having this week of activity is that we realize Barbados is going increasingly digital and so it is like a first step we are taking to educate our customers to ensure they become more aware of what they can do online and how to use the online abilities and functions,” said Small.

She said Scotiabank Barbados has not been experiencing a lot of fraudulent activities due to its proactive approach over the years.

“We are very proactive with checking our systems to make sure they are up-to-date and we have the protections that we need and Scotiabank also guarantees and backs up all of our online systems so customers do not lose,” she said.