The best way to keep your financial information safe is to keep your passwords and personal identification numbers (PINs) confidential.
When you open an account, the bank or building society will explain to you how to keep the personal security features of your account safe. They will also tell you what would happen if you lost them or had them stolen. This would include your PIN, password, any other security information known only by you and your bank or building society, and your cards and other documents, such as statement and cheque books.
If you believe that your account has been used without your permission then you will need to contact your bank or building society immediately and report any unauthorised activity.
Similarly, if you think your PIN or password is no longer confidential and could be known by others, it is essential you report this too.
Banks and building societies do not normally contact account holders and ask for personal details, so be cautious of anyone calling and asking for these personal details. You can always ask to phone the caller back to ensure they are who they say they are. However you will be asked to identify yourself by giving some of your personal details if you contact your bank or building society.
Baines and Ernst Ltd