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Banking and Financial News
Apacs: Update computer protection software before banking online - 05/02/2008
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Online banking customers should ensure their computers have adequate security in order to protect them against internet crime, payments association Apacs has suggested.
Spokesperson Mark Bowerman said computers should have the necessary firewalls and software protecting them against viruses and spyware.
In addition to taking these basic precautions, consumers should also be savvy about how they operate when online, Mr Bowerman advised.
He said: "If you've got your computer all protected then it's all about how you use the internet."
His advice includes refraining from clicking on links in unsolicited emails that ask the reader to visit a site and update details.
Even if such emails seem to come from a reputable source such as PayPal, eBay or a person's banking institution, Mr Bowerman said that people should be "very wary" of any unsolicited emails asking for the divulging of personal information.
The Apacs spokesperson's comments come at the start of Scams Awareness Month, an initiative launched by the Office of Fair Trading (OFT).
According to the OFT, the typical UK adult loses about £70 a year as a result of online scams, which collectively cost the nation some £3.5 billion.
The watchdog also claims that some three million consumers in the UK become victims of scams conducted by the internet, phone, text, email and post every year.
© Adfero
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