Online security

In order to protect your devices and the data they contain from cybercriminals, we strongly recommend that you adopt the following measures as a minimum before accessing our online products.

Browser/Operating System Security Updates

It is important to apply the security updates provided at regular intervals by the Browser/Operating System provider e.g. Microsoft. These updates are provided to address vulnerabilities which virus writers\hackers may exploit.

Firewalls and security software

Keep your firewalls and security software updated, setting updates to auto where possible. Run regular security scans on your devices. It’s important to check that this is functioning as expected, and the data can be accessed when required.

Reputable suppliers can be sourced online.

Malware

‘Malware’, short for ‘malicious software’, is used by criminals to disrupt computer operations and access confidential information. For more information about this visit our dedicated page.

Check that websites are secure, and proceed with caution

On sites that require you to input sensitive information, look for ‘https’ in the website address — the ‘s’ stands for ‘secure’, though be aware that this does not guarantee the website is genuine.

Never click on links or open attachments from senders you are unsure of

E-mails and their attachments are often used to spread viruses or install trojans or spyware and provide an entry point for a cybercriminal to access your computer.

When working remotely

Make sure that your employees understand the risks associated with home working, and are adequately equipped with all the information that they need to work safely.

Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) for remote access. VPNs add privacy and security to public networks and are used by corporations to protect sensitive data. In the absence of a VPN, avoid unknown public Wi-Fi sources and only use trusted secure connections.

Non-business use

Don’t bank, shop or enter confidential information using unsecured or public Wi-Fi, unless you are on a network you know is secure, and always log out of any accounts you have accessed.

Be aware of the risks of using public Wi-Fi

Public Wi-Fi hotspots make it easier for cybercriminals to monitor what you’re doing online, to gain access to your devices, and the personal or security information you enter whilst using them. Cybercriminals can also set up rogue networks with the sole purpose of harvesting valuable data.

If you have an automatic connection feature within your Wi-Fi settings turn this off to prevent your device from connecting to public or open Wi-Fi networks without your consent, and turn off file sharing.

Be aware of your surroundings

Whenever you are using the Internet or a company device in a public place, be aware of your surroundings, and ensure no one is able to look over your shoulder to view sensitive information.

Delete private information

If you saved or copied any information from the Internet on to the computer you were working on, delete this information if you were using a public or temporary computer, e.g. in an Internet cafe or library.

This is especially important if you downloaded any private account information from an online banking service.

Create strong passwords

This includes passwords for home Wi-Fi and devices as well as any accounts you use. Update them regularly, and enable/use two factor authentication wherever possible.

Clear your cache

It's a good idea to clear the cache on the computer you are using when you have finished, especially if it is a shared computer or you were using it in a public place. The cache (or Temporary Internet Files) store the web pages you have viewed, in your computer's memory. Clearing this will prevent others from calling up the last page you visited.

Close down your browser

When you have cleared your cache and history, close down the web browser itself.

Your bank will never:

• Ask you to make payments or move money to a ‘safe account’
• Call you and ask you to provide your full password, your payment authorisation codes, your PIN, to enter your PIN or to use your Biometric device
• Take control of your computer or ask you to download software from any site other than Barclays
• Send unsolicited requests to download software
• Send unsolicited emails containing links to online banking services such as iPortal.

How we contact you:

• We will contact you by post, phone (including SMS) or email using the details you have given us
• Certain forms of communication are not completely secure and you must take adequate precautions to ensure that others do not access, read or use your information without consent. We do not accept any liability for any interception of e-mails or SMS communications or interference with them by others
• It is your responsibility to ensure that we have your current contact details and the correct details for your key personnel that are authorised to access accounts and services on your behalf.