UK payments association APACS is advising UK online bankers to be more security aware, following disturbing research that suggests many are leaving themselves open to fraud attacks.
The payments body is attempting to increase awareness of phishing scams after its research revealed that half a million people in the UK would comply with unsolicited emails asking for their personal account details.
APACS is also concerned that UK internet banking users are not doing enough to ensure their hardware and software are secure, as its study suggests that 50% do not update their antivirus software and only a third have a firewall.
Additionally, the payments body is advising online account users to regularly change their passwords and to not leave permanent records of their passwords lying around.
Sandra Quinn, director of corporate communications at APACS, says: The internet has totally changed the way we shop and bank, and it’s very safe provided you remember two simple rules: use a secure PC and be wary of unsolicited emails.