Personal finance security

Ainsley1

I have noted the ramblings on the thread 'Online Bank Security - BROKEN !?!?! ' and do not wish to get involved in that discussion valid though it may be. It is far beyond most people's understanding apart from those most technically literate.

However the subject (and this includes on line security by Banks or other organisations) I feel, is of paramount importance so is worthy of both discussion and advice.

This has been highlighted to me following the knowledge of someone I know who has had their account fraudulently cleared out very recently. I will not post details but the bank in question reacted very quickly to prevent more fraud and to reimburse that account.

I am very aware that it is common to give sufficient details out necessarily to make purchases that then potentially allows others to use that same information - such as in a risky case of giving enough card detail when buying over the phone. I can think of many more such instances that create risk.

So, has anyone any 'set of rules' or succinct advise on how to maximise security whilst keeping flexibility? - or maybe a link to an advisory website. I guess most people know about things like hide your pin, don't share your card, shred your personal details etc. but what else can be done to try and prevent fraud? :beer:

Here's my bank of West Africa details so I can buy that tribal mask I've always wanted : Card number aaaa-ssss-dddd-ffff, sort code xxx-yyy, account No. 123456789, expiry date 01/15 security code 999.........ooops you can all buy one now! ...but then I'm not worried. Provided I notice the fraudulent activity among my other host of transactions then the bank will always refund me, will they not????? :(:(:(

colsten

Just do as he does and you will be perfectly safe

Ainsley1

At least he's not got his head in the clouds but I doubt he's any brainwaves that can be filched!

Herbalus

There's not much to say apart from be sensible. You can't legislate for every fraud attack and you won't know how a fraudster will attempt to defraud you.

Much in the same way you go outside every day and take precautions, but there is still a chance that you'll be hit by lightening.

brewerdave

One thing I don't do,is use any external PCs/tablets/networks for ANY financial transactions nowadays -not even checking balances whilst away from home -everything is done on one home PC with up to date antivirus,firewall and operating system.
I also avoid giving any details out over the phone unless there is absolutely no alternative.

I've had 3 attempted frauds on credit/debit cards over the past 6 years. Twice, I have been vigilant and spotted the false withdrawals, and,once, the bank picked up the suspicious activity -on all 3 occasions the transactions have been reversed without any fuss.:T

Steve_xx

brewerdave wrote: »

One thing I don't do,is use any external PCs/tablets/networks for ANY financial transactions nowadays -not even checking balances whilst away from home -everything is done on one home PC with up to date antivirus,firewall and operating system.

Absolutely agree with you. But, even though your home network is as secure as you say, you need to remember that the telephone network is not especially secure. Once your details go down a phone line there's no knowing who might capture any information you send.