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Legal, pensions and money

Do you use Internet banking?

(116 Posts)
Shinamae Mon 19-Apr-21 10:35:38

A couple of years ago I left my High Street bank and opened an account with First direct which is purely online. I am quite happy with it but I’m getting a bit worried about all the stories about hacking.The rate they are closing High Street banks as well looks like in the not too distant future online banking may be the only option....Thoughts please

CBBL Tue 20-Apr-21 18:48:27

I have used internet banking for years now (mostly because we live in a country area with no shops and no bus service). I would not download anything to my phone though, as I am partially sighted and setting need to show fairly large print for me to read it, and I wouldn't want to use it in public, or when travelling.
Security seems pretty good, and I do get calls from my bank querying transactions from time to time. I check several times a week that all is well with my balance/transactions etc. and don't worry unduly about it.

MerylStreep Tue 20-Apr-21 19:46:51

Banking apps on your phone are safer than using your PC.
Why, because the apps are vetted by Apple and Google whereas your PC can run software from any source.
This is from my daughter who’s last job was to try and break into bank accounts. Not your account but fictitious accounts.

Shinamae Tue 20-Apr-21 20:23:26

MerylStreep

Banking apps on your phone are safer than using your PC.
Why, because the apps are vetted by Apple and Google whereas your PC can run software from any source.
This is from my daughter who’s last job was to try and break into bank accounts. Not your account but fictitious accounts.

That’s reassuring Meryl Streep thank you ?

Nannagarra Tue 20-Apr-21 20:47:49

MerylStreep

Banking apps on your phone are safer than using your PC.
Why, because the apps are vetted by Apple and Google whereas your PC can run software from any source.
This is from my daughter who’s last job was to try and break into bank accounts. Not your account but fictitious accounts.

That’s why we use the iPad.

Lovetopaint037 Tue 20-Apr-21 21:13:50

My bank recommended using their app which they say is more secure. You are not, therefore, going on the WWW but directly to the bank. I also don’t use it on my phone. So far it has been really good allowing me to photograph cheques which I need to pay in and make payments to family for shopping etc.If anything unusual happens. Since lock down my bank has closed and is now only opening for a couple of hours twice a week. I believe they always intended to do this and Covid allowed them to do so.

Lovetopaint037 Tue 20-Apr-21 21:15:07

I meant if anything unusual happens I receive a text.

NanaandGrampy Tue 20-Apr-21 22:24:28

I’ve been with First Direct for at least 20 years . They consistently win awards for their service , their UK based call centres are outstanding.

I think they have every possible security and have never experienced a moments issue. I would never go back to in person banking.

Shinamae Tue 20-Apr-21 22:28:01

I really had no idea that First direct had been around for over 20,years I thought they were quite new!!!

glammagran Tue 20-Apr-21 22:46:11

We’ve been with First Direct for well over 20 years. I agree with others, I have found them to be first rate. Never need to visit a bank.

Foxyferret Wed 21-Apr-21 00:42:23

Used the Halifax online for years with no problems. Not bothered as they guarantee to cover up to £85,000 if anything goes wrong as do most banks, so my little tiny bit should be safe.

Saetana Wed 21-Apr-21 03:42:41

I've been using website and mobile banking for many years now - its quick, convenient and I've had no issues with it.

Shropshirelass Wed 21-Apr-21 08:48:08

I use internet banking but my DH doesn’t. I don’t worry about it, my banks are very secure with all the checks they make. I ignore texts and emails but check online through secure messages if I need to check on anything. Perfectly safe as long as you follow the banks guidelines.

Theoddbird Wed 21-Apr-21 09:18:24

I have used it for years. I only use my laptop to do it. My bank sends me a weekly statement text and email every week. They aslo have a lot of security checks if I want to make a new payment.

henetha Wed 21-Apr-21 09:58:03

I was reluctant to do online banking but was pursuaded into it by my daughter-in-law. I'm so glad I did, it is so convenient.
I get messages on my phone from the bank all the time, telling me what's going on. I really do recommend it.

Keffie12 Wed 21-Apr-21 11:54:48

I love Internet banking. I can't remember the last time I went in the bank or rung them.

I have it set up on my laptop and mobile app too.

The last time I had that strange thing called a cheque I paid it in through my online banking app too.

You need to be aware of Internet security and have it set up and never ever click on a link saying they are from your bank.

Also the same if you get a call from the bank. Never give personal info away. Hang up if your not sure.

Google being security savvy online for a good overall picture of do's and dont's.

Whatever you do make sure you have anti virus on, on your phone as well as your laptop/P.C