Tips for secure Internet Banking

PC security:

It is important to use up-to-date Anti-virus software and a personal firewall. If your computer uses Microsoft Windows operating system, it is important to keep it updated via the Windows Update feature, equally if you use another PC operating system or have an Apple Mac you should check regularly for updates. You should be vigilant if you use Internet cafes or a computer that is not your own and over which you have no control.

Check for Spyware:

In addition to being protected by using up-to-date antivirus software you should also regularly use software to remove Spyware from you computer, as these programs record information about your Internet use and transmit it without your permission. In some circumstances this can compromise your PC security.

Always access your Bank's Internet banking by typing in the correct URL into your browser.

Never click on a link in an email to take you to a website and enter personal details either in the email or website.

Password and PIN security:

You should always be wary if you receive unsolicited emails or calls asking you to disclose any personal details or card numbers. This information should be kept secret at all times. Be cautious about disclosing personal information to individuals you do not know. Please remember that your Bank would never contact you directly to ask you to disclose your PIN or all your password information.

Be cautious of unsolicited emails

Don't be conned by convincing emails offering you the chance to make some easy money. As with most things if it looks too good to be true, it probably is! Be cautious of unsolicited emails from overseas - it is much harder to prove legitimacy of the organisations behind the emails.



Keep your identity private offline:


Your identity can be as easily stolen offline as it can online. It is important that you comply with instructions about destroying new PIN numbers and expired bank cards. You should also consider using a crosscut shredder to destroy unneeded bank and other statements that may contain sensitive personal information. It is advisable to store retained documents in a suitable locked and fireproof container.

Check your statements: back to top

It is important to check your statements regularly; a quick check will help identify any erroneous or criminal transactions that might have been performed on your account without your knowledge.

Check your banking session is secure:

When undertaking any banking on the Internet, check that the session is secure. There are two simple indicators that will tell you if your session is secure. The first is the use of https:// in the URL. Some browsers such as Mozilla Firefox change the colour of the url window when you are in a secure session. The other indicator is the presence of a digital certificate represented by a padlock or key in the bottom right hand corner. If you double click on this icon it should provide you with information about the organisation with which you have entered in to a secure session .

Always completely log off from your Internet banking session:

It is important to completely log off from your Internet banking session; simply closing the window you performed the transaction in may not close the banking session. If your computer is infected with a Trojan, you session may become hijacked by a criminal and financial transactions performed without your knowledge. It is also advisable to disconnect from the Internet if you are not planning to use it.