Banking - prevention campaign

12th July, 2013

The banks' fifth prevention and awareness campaign appeals for proper use of bank accounts online.

The APB Interbank Forum for Online Security entitled “Don't Give Security a Break!” is conducting an awareness campaign from 15 July to 6 September to alert parents to the importance of teaching their children the dangers of incorrect internet use, which may result in access to their bank accounts by third parties.

The campaign is designed to urge children to use computers and Smartphones sensibly, especially when deciding what information to give on social networks. It is very important for everyone to know the risks and protect their computer from access to their personal information.

The forum tells users what to do when online:

• Do not give personal data, such as your full name, address or phone number;
• Do not use social networks to embarrass other users and be particularly careful with "friends" (who are often just strangers posing as friends);
• Don't forget that online games, which are very popular with young people, can be used to obtain passwords or personal information.

Even if you leave your computer at home when on holiday, Smartphones and tablets have internet access and so the Interbank Forum for Online Security gives advice on how to use them:

• Password protect your Smartphone to prevent others from using if it is lost or stolen;
• Only install apps from reliable suppliers (App Store, Google Play, Windows Phone Store, BlackBerry World, Nokia Store) and confirm the requested permission levels;
• Set limits and internet rules and restrict access to stop your children installing or executing programmes without your knowledge;
• Install an antivirus programme. Find out about available programmes for some Smartphones;
• Update your operating system and apps. If you do not, this increases the risk of virtual attacks or installation of malware;
• Only access known wi-fi networks and don't click on links or download apps from unknown sources.

Contact your bank immediately if you find that the information requested on the home-banking access page is different, without your having been notified in advance.

Have a great, secure holliday.

It is up to you to protect your computer, tablet, Smartphone and personal data!