Using the internet securely

We’ll never ask for your Internet Banking password, login details or PIN. If you receive any request for this information report it to:

  • Our customer service team, on 0345 845 0829. Lines are open 8am to 6pm Monday to Friday; or
  • Action Fraud, on 0300 123 2040. Lines are open Monday to Friday 9am-6pm. Text phone users can ring 0300 123 2050.

Action fraud will be able to log the incident and provide you with a Crime Reference number if needed. Action Fraud collects data from across the UK to help banks and other businesses combat fraud.

Additional measures to stay secure

  • Limit the amount of personal information you share about yourself online to reduce the risk of identity theft and fraud. Think carefully about what you post in tweets, on Facebook, Instagram and other social media.
  • Protect yourself by using security settings, PINs and passwords wherever you can. Passwords are key to online security on your Internet Banking, computer, tablet and smartphone. Choose secure passwords, don’t share them and change them often.
  • Always update your computer, tablet and smartphone’s operating system and web browser software. Always use anti-virus software to protect your devices. Keep up to date.
  • Always keep your operating system (like Windows or iOS), your internet browser (like Internet Explorer) and software up-to-date.
  • Use anti-virus software. Install it on your computer, keep it up-to-date and make sure it scans at least once a week. Act when prompted. Don’t keep putting it off – it’s there to protect you.
  • Listen to your anti-virus software. It should tell you when a site is unsafe to visit or a file is unsafe to open.
  • Download carefully. Never download files and programs unless you are absolutely certain they are genuine and come from a source you trust. Always download mobile apps from an official store such as the App Store or Google Play.
  • Only log in and pay on secure sites. The most secure sites have a green padlock in the address bar, and https:// at the beginning of the web address when they require personal or financial information. These won’t necessarily appear on pages that don’t request for personal or financial information.

Further information

If you would like further information on how to use the internet securely, you can obtain free, expert advice at www.getsafeonline.org, or takefive-stopfraud.org.uk. Users of Scottish Widows Bank Internet Banking can find more specific information at our internet banking security information pages.

Scottish Widows Bank is a trading name of Lloyds Bank plc. Registered office: 25 Gresham Street, London EC2V 7HN. Registered in England and Wales, no. 2065. Authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority under number 119278.