Here’s a practical, step-by-step guide to using mobile banking in Sri Lanka (what to do, common features, and safety tips).
- Choose and install the right app
- Pick your bank’s official mobile app (Bank of Ceylon “B App” or “BOC Flex”, Commercial Bank’s ComBank/ComBank Online apps, Sampath Bank, HNB, Seylan, etc.). Download from Google Play, Apple App Store or your bank’s website to avoid fake apps. (BOC.lk)
- Register / activate mobile banking
- Many banks allow self-registration in the app if your mobile number and email are already registered with the bank. Some banks also let you register through an ATM (using your ATM card + PIN) or by visiting a branch. Follow the bank’s on-screen registration steps (enter account number, mobile number, verify with OTP). (BOC.lk)
- Secure your login
- Set a strong app PIN and enable biometric login (fingerprint/Face ID) if available. Most apps use one-time-passwords (OTPs) for sensitive actions—keep your phone number active and private. (BOC.lk)
- Familiarize yourself with common features
- Account overview: view balances and recent transactions.
- Funds transfer: transfer between your accounts, to other bank accounts (via account number/IFSC or LankaPay/FAST/LankaQR where supported), schedule transfers, or save beneficiaries.
- Bill payments and top-ups: electricity, water, mobile, broadband, TV subscriptions and credit card bill pay.
- QR & merchant payments: scan LankaQR or bank QR codes to pay merchants.
- e-statements, e-passbook or mini statements and card management (block cards, check statements). (combank.net.bd)
- Typical transaction flow
- To send money: open app → choose “Transfer” or “Payments” → pick account to debit → enter recipient details (account/card/phone) → enter amount → confirm with OTP or app PIN/biometric → get confirmation/receipt. Save frequent payees to speed future payments. (combank.net.bd)
- Fees, limits and timing
- Check your bank’s fee schedule and daily transfer limits inside the app or on the bank website. Inter-bank transfers may use LankaPay/FAST and can be immediate or take a short time depending on channel and cut-off times. If you expect large or urgent transfers, confirm limits and processing times with your bank. (BOC.lk)
- Safety best practices
- Only install official apps from trusted stores.
- Never share OTPs, PINs, or full card/CVV details. Banks will never ask for these by phone/SMS.
- Keep your phone’s OS and the banking app updated. Use screen lock and biometric security.
- Use the app’s logout function after use (or set auto-logout). Immediately report lost/stolen phones and suspicious transactions to your bank. (BOC.lk)
- If you need help
- Use the bank’s in-app help/support, call the official customer service numbers on the bank’s website, or visit your branch. If a registration method (like ATM or self-registration) is offered, banks often document the steps on their sites or provide video guides. (businesscafe.lk)
Quick checklist to get started
- Have your national ID and bank account details ready.
- Make sure the mobile number registered with the bank is the one in your phone.
- Download your bank’s official app and follow the in-app registration with OTP.
- Set up app PIN/biometrics and test a small transfer to confirm everything works.
If you tell me which bank you use (BOC, Commercial Bank, Sampath, HNB, etc.), I can give the exact registration steps and links to the bank’s official setup guide or the app’s download page.