Topazer

Hi

Which internet account (bank) is really safe? Are "good passwords and firewalls" enough for online banking?

Cheers,
Topazer

spottydog

Commonwealth Bank have introduced SMS codes for some transactions. I'm not sure which yet as I've only just signed up for it but I presume it will be for making external payments. Can't help with any others as we've only got one account

moneypenny20

Firewalls and passwords are all I've ever used whether here or in the UK. Nothing is beyond the scope of hackers unfortunately.

Pomster

HSBC online have personal banking number, password, plus a security device which generates random numbers.

Seems to work and is problem free so far ( have had the account 5 years and little device about 18 months)

Topazer

Thanks Pomster for info.

It seems that online banking is safe only with HSBC.

Others (banks) are unconcerned about security when it comes to clients money - strange

sassie

and also HSBC seem to be upgrading their online security as from 22nd April. Got some info about it with our statement a couple of days ago.

ianandhelena

i've got the little number generator too.
do you know what happens when the battery runs out?
there doesn't seem to be any way to change it.

mark213

The battery will take years to run out. Its only on when you press the button. If it gives up you just take it in or call them to replace it.

On online banking generally. Its one of the safest forms of transactions.
- Check for the padlock
- Have a decent password +6chars and with numbers.
- Most banks have an online gaurentee
- Most have daily transaction limits.
- Check your statement weekly at least!

Unless you give all your details out there is only so much a thief can do.
You are way more likly to get your card skimmed as they dont have chip/pin. EFTPOS goes someway but credit cards don't.

gedge

i used one of those tokens for work for 5 years, atleast once a day, sometimes more and it never needed a new battery