Types of online scams

Key loggers

Did you know that it is possible to record every single key you press on your keyboard? With the right code, scammers can identify your usernames and passwords by tracking the keystrokes you have used on particular sites, hence this online scam is known as key logger. It can be transferred to your device through an email attachment or memory stick. Keep your security software up-to-date and never open unknown e-mail attachments.

Phishing

When you get an email from your bank, or a similar institution, how do you know it’s legit? That’s an important question to ask yourself because scammers can harvest your PIN, passwords, and account details with one simple trick. They send an email that looks like it comes from your bank with a link to your Internet Banking profile. When you follow the link, it’s a fake webpage. Unsuspecting victims input all their details and voila! The scammers have everything they need to steal from you. Never follow links to secure banking environments from emails. We promise that we’ll never put it in our communications with you.

SMShing

As the name suggests, SMShing is much like Phishing but occurs via text message on mobile devices. In these cases, you’ll get a scary message supposedly from your bank telling you that your credit card has been stolen or a large sum of money has been withdrawn from your account. It will include a link for you to follow to input your PIN and other sensitive information in some kind of “reporting” environment. Don’t do it. If you’re concerned about your accounts, phone the lost or stolen cards helpline at 0800 020 600.

Deposit refund scam

If anybody ever contacts you to tell you that they’ve “accidentally” paid money into your account, you should be suspicious. Scammers provide a fake “proof of payment” and ask you to refund their money. You will pay it, believing that the money will clear in your account soon. Of course, it never will. Always double-check these deposits with the bank.

Vishing

Vishing is a combination of the words “Voice” and “Phishing”. This is when scammers pretend to be somebody from the bank and acquire your private information through telephonic manipulation. They will pretend that they are phoning to confirm your personal or bank details or to let you know they’ve detected something wrong with your bank account. Never give your PIN or any personal information over the phone. Our bankers will never expect you to supply that kind of information telephonically.

 

 

Top tip to avoid online scams:

Make it a rule to never share personal banking information with anyone and always check the website address and SSL (padlock/security) status of your online banking environment before inputting any information at all.