Online Fraud

Online banking is generally very safe, as long as you take basic precautions.

Hoax e-mails claiming to be from Barclaycard

You will never be contacted by email or via a website, asking you to supply 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.

You think you’ve already provided personal details on a hoax e-mail, what should you do?

• Call us as soon as possible on 01604 230 230 (call charges info). Our advisers are here to help 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Your Barclaycard will be blocked 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 0844 811 9111 (call charges info).

Stay 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 (call charges info).

Keep personal information safe

• Never reveal your password or PIN to anyone, even if they claim to be from Barclaycard or the police – you’ll never be asked for your PIN and if you are asked for your password, you’ll never be asked 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.

Keep hold of your cash

• Don't be mislead by e-mails offering you the chance to make some money, particularly from outside the UK.

Keep your PC secure

• Keep your anti-virus software up to date, a personal firewall and anti-spyware software can 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, e.g. in an internet café.

Check the Barclaycard website

• You can find advice on internet security 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 (call charges info).

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.