Bahrain-based BMI Bank has launched an upgraded e-banking service for its retail customers, including its credit card holders.

The upgraded Internet facility will enable customers to register for the service online, according to a report in our sister publication, the Gulf Daily News.

They can execute their retail banking transactions as well as receive information regarding financial and non-financial transactions without visiting a branch.

The new version has added security features to protect customers' online banking transactions.

The service permits a customer-defined user name and password, which can be reset by users, thus eliminating considerable back-office management and cost, along with a one-time password, which is valid for 15 minutes.

BMI Bank has continued working towards leveraging technology since introducing online banking service for customers in 2007, said chief executive Jamal Al Hazeem.

"The improved and upgraded version of the service, which we are launching today, offers a much wider range of services and enhanced features to our customers," he said.

"Over the years, we have been working towards leveraging technology as well as providing convenient and easily accessible banking services through a range of channels such as ATMs, the Internet and through phone banking in an attempt to make banking convenient and further boost customer experience."

Customers will have better control of their finances - safely, quickly and conveniently - thanks to the e-banking and phone banking services, he added.

They can also add beneficiaries, apply for fixed deposits online, besides paying local bills and reviewing their banking transaction history at a glance online.

BMI Bank credit card transactions can be viewed real time as opposed to the earlier delay of almost two days.

The bank advises customers to protect their accounts by changing their passwords often and avoid sharing it with anyone.

They are also urged to log on to the eBanking service only from the bank's website at bmibank.com.bh instead of accessing from any external link to avoid any form of duplicity.

Customers should also avoid replying to text messages or emails requesting personal and confidential account information. – TradeArabia News Service