Staying secure online - protect yourself against fraud

With more businesses operating online, we need to be savvy about who we interact with and those collecting our personal data.

Whether it’s an online weekly shop, checking your bank account or even logging in to social media, you can protect yourself against fraud and data misuse. Here are our top tips:

1. Never share a password or PIN number, even if you think it could be your bank calling.
2. Do not transfer money out of your account even if you feel pressured to do so for security reasons. Take time to consider who is calling, performing further checks if necessary.
3. Always verify a payment request directly with the person or company you are paying, using a separate method of communication.
4. Be wary of links in emails and text messages – some may ask for payment information or bank details. Always be vigilant; do not enter any details.
5. Never download software you are unfamiliar with, or let others remotely log in to your devices.

Fraudsters are becoming much more technical in their approach. If an email, text message or phone call seems suspicious, take time to think and report it to Action Fraud.

When it comes to social media and online shopping accounts, use a range of different passwords for each site. Even better, you should add combination letters and symbols as they become more challenging for fraudsters to guess! You should also update these passwords regularly by logging in to your online account.

For UK government information, check out the website www.takefive-stopfraud.org.uk