Email is an excellent communication tool and also a useful way to stay informed about new products and services. However, email is sometimes used to deliver unwanted material. Always be cautious when sending or receiving emails, particularly if you are sending any personal details or arranging financial transactions.
What to Look for
Check for misspellings or unfamiliar sender addresses.
Unexpected emails which claim to come from a financial institution.
Urgent requests and threats.
Claims that your account has been compromised.
Requests to “Open an Attachment” or “Click a Link”.
What you can do to stay safe
Be suspicious of unsolicited emails. Listen to your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right then stop and question it.
Never reveal your banking details or other personal information if requested via email.
Check links in emails are legitimate by ‘hovering’ your mouse over the link to view the web address (URL) without clicking. If it is different to what you were expecting, do not click.
Consider having different email addresses for different purposes; one for your bank to use, another for family and friends and perhaps a different address for online newsletters.