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Staying Safe Online

Published on 11 August 2022 08:47 AM

In recent years, going online has become the UK's favourite method of banking. This undoubtedly brings a lot of benefits with instant account checking, payments and money transfers. However, it is still important to stay cautious and ensure we are using the internet and mobile banking safely. Internet banking is in general safe as your bank's priority is your security. Fraudsters may try to trip you up, so there are some things to watch out for.

Get Safe Online has launched a campaign to help us be safe and responsible. Here are their top tips for keeping safe online: 

  • Protect computers, smartphone and tablets with a PIN to prevent access to anyone but you. 
  • Create strong banking passwords (using numbers and special characters), keep them to yourself and use a different password for every online account.  
  • Always use two-factor authentication when asked (using a back-up mobile phone number as well as another email address).  
  • Keep banking apps updated (check this in app settings). 
  • Ensure you log out of banking websites and apps when you have finished using them.  
  • Make sure the Wi-Fi network for online banking is secure. If you’re using a public Wi-Fi out and about, wait till you get home to use banking apps. 
  • Only download apps from your device’s authorised app store and check reviews and recommendations.  
  • Choose the option for a text to be sent every time there’s a transaction on your account.  
  • Beware of un solicited emails, texts or calls from “your bank” or “the police” warning you about an issue with your account or requesting confidential details, as they could be a scam. These warnings usually demand information/urgent action to avoid losing money or having your account closed. If this happens, ring your bank on the number you know to be real.

If you do fall victim to fraud or attempted fraud, contact your bank immediately and also report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 1040 or at www.actionfrauf.police.uk.  

For more information on protecting yourself online please visit www.getsafeonline.org.