Software, computers and viruses

Keep security software updated

We encourage our customers to keep program software up to date, consider upgrading to the most current version of system software, and installing appropriate anti-virus, security and protection software to protect them from identity theft and account compromise.

• Microsoft is no longer providing updates for Windows XP, Office 2003 and Exchange Server 2003.
• Without critical security updates, PCs and tablets may be vulnerable to harmful viruses, spyware, and other malicious software (or ‘malware’) which fraudsters can use to access your computer and steal your personal information.
• Anti-virus software may not be able to protect your computer if other software on your computer cannot be updated (such as Windows XP) or is not regularly updated with the latest versions.

Computer safety

Computers store all sorts of information. They connect to the internet, and let people all over the world connect instantly. They are also targets for fraudsters, so it’s important to keep them as secure as possible.

Some things you can do to help protect yourself are:

• Lock it!  Make sure you have a password to access your computer, and that you change any default passwords as soon as you can. This includes passwords for modems and routers – if someone else can access your internet connection, they can use it to access any computers and devices that are connected to it, and also potentially run up big bills!
• Update and scan it.  Ensure that you have adequate security installed, including firewalls, anti-virus and anti-spyware. Turn on automatic updates for all programs, including security programs, and make sure that you run scans regularly.
• Check your info. Always check the ‘last login’ data on websites like internet banking, and contact us immediately on 132 888 if the last log in recorded was not done by you. 
• Keep it secret. Keep your login information and passwords secret – don’t even share them with family and friends. 
• Think before you click. Be careful when clicking on links or opening attachments from emails, even if they look to be from someone you trust. Emails can be hacked or spoofed and websites can be hijacked or faked, so clicking on links and opening attachments can lead to malware.  If you’re not 100% sure, don’t click.
• Know your habits. If you ever see something that you don’t recognise, like a post on social media or a transaction on your account, take immediate steps to alert the relevant parties. If it’s a transaction on your account, call us on 132 888.
• Use two­-factor authentication. Where possible, use two-factor authentication to verify yourself on websites. It’s quick and easy, and helps prevent other people from using your details.

Upgrade offers

Be careful when accepting upgrades. Scammers often adapt their methods to match genuine things that are happening.  Currently, they are taking advantage of Microsoft Windows 10 upgrades to send emails out claiming that they can fast-track the upgrade if you follow a link and download an ‘installer program’.  The link takes you to a fake website that looks like the real website, but downloading the software infects your computer with malware.

Scammers are also using phone calls advising that there was an issue with the upgrade, and that if you allow them remote access they can fix it for a fee.  Don’t allow remote access to a cold caller (i.e. someone who has called you), and don’t provide payment details unless you have initiated the contact and trust the other party.

If you’re ever unsure about a call or an email, please contact us.