Knowing how to spot and avoid a scam is an important skill. As some of the schemes can be very sophisticated, it’s possible for anybody to fall victim. It’s important to remain vigilant in order to protect your information. To help, we’ve put together a quick guide outlining some of the things you can do to help you stay safe online.
Passwords
Avoid using passwords that are easy to guess. Instead use a combination of letters, numbers, cases, and symbols.
Never share your passwords with anybody else.
Use different passwords for different accounts.
Protect Your Devices
Keep your devices updated with anti-virus software and up-to-date security.
If you receive any suspicious or unexpected emails or texts, do not click on any links, or open any attachments.
Online Services
Never access your mybbs account or any other financial accounts you may have via public Wi-Fi.
Once you have completed any transactions, log out of your account.
Protect Yourself
Do not leave important documents in plain sight.
Important documents that contain any private or financial information should be destroyed with a shredder when they are no longer needed.
Passbooks
If you have lost your passbook, please notify us as soon as possible. We will cancel the lost passbook so that it can no longer be used. If you locate the book subsequently, please send it to us so that we can destroy it. This is for your own security. We will send you out a new passbook to use.
If there are any security issues around the loss of the book or you are worried it could have been stolen, we will close your account and open a new one with a new account number to avoid anyone fraudulently taking your money out. We reserve the right to make a £10 charge for lost passbooks.
Like other financial services in the UK, we are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). The FCA offers consumers information pertaining to the protection of your rights as well as the avoidance of scams. Find out more ways to protect yourself from scams here.
Take Five is a national campaign, helping everyone to protect themselves against financial fraud. Take a look at their website to receive straight-forward, impartial advice.
We are committed to keeping you and the personal and financial information you have entrusted to us, safe. So, if you suspect someone has unauthorised access to your mybbs account, follow your instincts and let us know. Please call 01494 879 500.
For additional information on how to report fraud, please visit Citizens Advice.
Get Safe Online is another resource filled with advice about how to protect yourself online.
Financial abuse can take many forms and occur within any relationship, whether they are an intimate partner, a relative, or a carer. Instances can take the form of sabotage, financial control, or exploitation. There are resources available to help you should you need it.
The Building Societies Association can provide you with more information via their leaflet entitled “It’s your money” available here.
If you need help urgently, please call the National Domestic Violence Helpline on 0808 200 0247. They are available 24 hours and the call is free.
Or, if you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call the police on 999.