Online Fraud

Managing your account online beats waiting for ages in a queue at your local branch. Unfortunately it's also opened a new avenue for criminals – internet fraud.

But don't let the scare stories put you off. Online banking is generally very safe, so long as you take some basic precautions.

To help you, here are a few of the tactics most commonly used by fraudsters:

Hoax emails claiming to be from Barclaycard

You might receive an email asking you to click a link to our website (or that of another financial institution). If you do so, a pop-up window may appear, or you could be taken to what appears to be our website. Either way, you'll be asked to reactivate your online account access by entering confidential log-in information.
The pop-up and/or website are fake – this is actually a fraudulent attempt to obtain your account details.

How do I know this is a hoax?

Quite simply, we will never contact you by email or via a website, asking you to supply us with any security details relating to you, your credit card details, PIN, or online account servicing.

Hoax retailer requests

When you make a purchase online, you might be asked to set up, or to provide information not currently on your Barclaycard. Before you go ahead, check with the retailer that they are part of the 'Verified by VISA' or 'MasterCard Secure Code' schemes.

You can get more information about this or register for extra security measures online at Barclaycard Secure.

I think I've already provided my personal details on a hoax email, what should I do?

• Call us as soon as possible on 01604 230230*. Our advisers are here to help 24 hours a day, seven days a week. We can put block your Barclaycard immediately to prevent any (further) fraudulent activity on your Barclaycard
• Check your statements carefully for any fraudulent activity on your card. If you see any suspicious activity, call us on 0870 1540154**.

TIPS FOR STAYING SAFE ONLINE

Know who you are dealing with

• Only log on to online banking by typing the Barclaycard.co.uk address in to your web browser
• Never enter personal details onto a webpage accessed via an email link
• If in doubt contact us directly on 0844 811 9111**.

Keep personal information safe

• Never reveal your password or PIN to anyone, even if they claim to be from Barclaycard or the police - we will never ask you for your PIN, and if we do ask you for your password, we will never ask for it in full to protect your privacy
• Be very wary of disclosing your personal details or card numbers to anyone you don't know or haven't contacted yourself.

Keep hold of your cash

• We're afraid that the old rule still applies - if it looks too good to be true, it probably is. So don't be conned by emails offering you the chance to make some easy money, particularly from outside the UK.

Keep your PC secure

• Use up to date anti-virus software, a personal firewall and anti-spyware software to prevent unauthorised access and viruses being downloaded onto your PC when you're online
• If you are a Microsoft user (for example Windows XP), download the Microsoft updates from the official website
• Be extra careful when using a PC which isn't yours and over which you have no control, eg. in an internet café.

Check the Barclaycard website

• If in doubt, you can trust the advice for safe surfing on our website
• Check regularly for the latest information on protecting your PC and yourself online
• Before you enter any information, make sure you are accessing the genuine Barclaycard website:
  • There should be a locked padlock or unbroken key in the bottom right of your browser window
  • You can check the Security Certificate is authentic by double clicking on the padlock
  • Our website address will change from 'http' to 'https' when a secure connection is made.

Check your statement

• If you notice any transactions you don't remember making on your account, contact us immediately on 0844 811 9111**

Always log out properly

• Click the 'log out' button on ‘My Account'. This is particularly important if you're using a shared computer
• Never leave your computer unattended when it's logged on to your account

Look after your password

• Commit it and other security information to memory - don't jot it down anywhere, and if we've sent it to you, destroy the notice
• Take all reasonable steps to keep your password and other security information secret at all times
• If you change your password, choose one which can't be easily guessed.

* Calls are charged at standard rate and may be recorded for training purposes.
** Calls are charged at national rate and may be recorded for training purposes.