There are increasing incedents of email fraud occuring and it is important to be aware of the risks and protect yourself from them.

This is primarily through phishing scams. These occur as emails that appear to come from your bank (and other reputable organisations like the government) - often containing all the correct logos and security details - that make some mention of a requirement to confirm details or update your records.

It is important to remember that under no circumstances will your bank or financial institution ask you in an email to confirm or update your password or other details

Golden Rules

• Never click the links within the email. Always type the web address of your banking website into your browser by hand and then access the services you require from there.

• Whenever you are entering ANY sesitive or private information (account numbers, passwords, ID numbers, etc) you should check that it is a secure website. Secure sites are designated by a padlock image in the top or bottom bar of your browser and a yellow coloured address bar on the Firefox browser

• Never reply to any email asking for any personal details.

If you are absolutely convinced that the email is legitimate then you should always contact you branch by phone or in person to confirm that they require the information.