Online security

Anti-virus software protects your computer in two ways. First, it detects and removes any computer viruses and spyware that have been installed on your computer without your permission. Second, it prevents viruses and spyware from infecting your computer and compromising your online security.

If you do have antivirus software (like Norton Anti-Virus, McAfee Antivirus, or Zone Alarm Anti-virus) update your virus definitions at least once a week to keep the latest threats at bay.

This is a security application that sits between your computer and the internet, shielding your computer from unauthorised access. Any computer you use to access the internet should have a firewall.

We recommend that your firewall is set to monitor incoming and outgoing internet traffic. This ensures that you have control over information that enters and leaves your computer.

Windows XP, Windows Vista and Mac OS X have built-in firewalls. Read your help menus for instructions on checking or setting up your firewall. In addition, you can download a commercially available product like the Zone Alarm Internet Security Suite.

Remember that The Royal Bank of Scotland will never ask you to supply your complete password in order to access our internet banking service. We only ever ask for parts of your password.

Your security number and password are the keys to your online accounts and information. You should never share them with any one else - and remember to change your password regularly. This helps ensure it's secure.

Make your password memorable so you won't forget it, but ensure you choose one that will be difficult to guess.

Finally, don't write down your password or PIN. However, it's fine to write down your customer number.

Phishing is a fraud technique commonly used to attempt to trick people into revealing their security number and password to fraudsters.

The fraudster sends out a fake e-mail that has been designed to look like it comes from a reputable source (like The Royal Bank of Scotland). This fake e-mail asks for security details or directs customers to a counterfeit banking or commerce site. At the counterfeit site, the fraudster asks the customer to enter their complete security details - such as password, security questions, and user name. These stolen security details are then used to commit fraud.

If you receive an e-mail requesting your security details, do not reply and do not follow the instructions - even if the e-mail suggests that you need to take immediate action to stop your account being frozen or it indicates that you may incur a fine if you don't.

These are just tricks that the fraudster is using to manipulate you in to giving away your vital details.

If you suspect a phishing attack, call us on 0845 600 8212 (Minicom 0845 900 5960), or forward the suspect e-mail to digitalbanking@rbs.co.uk

Lines are open 24 hours, 365 days of the year. The maximum call charge from a BT landline is 4p per minute. Calls may be recorded. Calls from other networks may vary.

By typing directly into your browser instead of following links, you greatly reduce your chances of being duped by a spoof site.

Genuine secure sites have addresses that start with 'https'. They also show a locked padlock symbol in the bottom section of your internet browser, or beside the website address.

Double-clicking the locked padlock symbol brings up information about the lock that can help you confirm that the site is genuine. If the padlock is not within its valid dates, or has been issued to a website that you do not recognise, do not enter your security details and call us on 0845 600 8212. (Textphone 0845 900 5960). Lines are open from 8am - Midnight 365 days of the year. The maximum call charge from a BT landline is 4p per minute. Calls from other networks may vary. Calls may be recorded.

Never leave your computer unattended when logged in to a secure session (like internet banking). Ensure you log-out properly when you have finished your internet banking session.

You cannot be certain about the security of public wireless networks or computers in public places (like a library or internet café). So be very cautious about using internet banking services in these situations. Never change your security details while using a public wireless network or a public computer.

The Royal Bank of Scotland Group does not review or endorse and shall not be responsible or liable for the advertising, content, products, goods or other materials or services available on external websites or resources.