Security

Security

Many people are concerned about online banking fraud, which increased by 55 per cent over the first half of 2009. However, there are a number of steps you can take to keep your accounts secure:

• Keep your ID, passwords and PIN numbers secret – never tell them to anyone or write them down
• Never send your personal details via e-mail as these can be easily intercepted
• Never respond to emails that might be phishing – your bank would never ask you to reveal your personal security details. If you have received an email asking you to do this, contact your bank for advice
• Never use an obvious password – such as “password” or something someone could easily guess
• Sign up to Verified by Visa or MasterCard SecureCode which add an extra level of security to online payments
• Always log out of your account and close your internet browser once you have completed your banking, to avoid your account details being accessed by someone else using the same PC
• Some banks offer their own free security software that can be installed to add an extra level of security, such as NatWest’s Rapport software that can be used on NatWest’s own website as well as any others where you're inputting personal information such as your credit card number or bank details
• Install up to date security software like Norton or McAfee on your computer to protect you from viruses and hackers