Staying safe online

From time to time, weaknesses are discovered in programmes running on your computer. These weaknesses can be exploited by virus writers and hackers to gain access to computers. As such, publishers will release 'patches' from time to time to correct these weaknesses.

To check for patches and updates you should visit the publisher's website, typically their 'Download' section. Generally, the latest versions of an operating system family (like Microsoft Windows) or browser (like Internet Explorer, Firefox etc) is the most secure.

Microsoft users can visit: http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com , which can automatically check what is required for both your operating system and browser and then download it at your request.

You may already be using anti-virus software but to be effective, the software should be updated on a regular basis with the latest virus definition files. If you are unsure how to do this, you should refer to the program's 'Help' function.

Any file with no extension or a double extension, eg wow.jpg.pif is almost certainly a virus and should never be opened. Also, never open an e-mail attachment that contains a file ending with .exe, .pif and .vbs as these are commonly used with viruses.

There are many effective programs to choose from, but the most common commercial products include McAfee, Trend Micro, Sophos, Symantec and F-Secure. It is also possible to obtain free anti-virus protection from Microsoft Security Essentials, Grisoft AVG Anti-Virus, Antivir, ALWIL Avast and ClamWin. However, be sure to visit the genuine site as there are many fake products claiming to protect your computer but which may actually infect it with viruses.

A personal firewall is another small program that helps protect your computer and its contents from outsiders on the internet. When installed and correctly configured, it stops unauthorised traffic to and from your computer.

There are many effective programs to choose from. Common commercial examples include Windows Firewall and Check Point Zone Alarm (free), McAfee Personal Firewall and Norton Personal Firewall.

Spyware is the term used to describe programs that run on your computer which monitor and record the way you browse the internet and the sites you visit. It can also be downloaded without your consent or knowledge and used to see personal information that you have entered online, including passwords, telephone numbers, credit card numbers and identity card numbers.

Anti-spyware programmes currently available include AdAware, Microsoft Defender (free), Spyware Blaster, Spy Sweeper and, Sunbelt Software Counter Spy. Again, be sure to visit the genuine site as there are many fake products claiming to protect your computer but which may actually infect it with viruses.

HSBC will never send you an unsolicited e-mail containing a link to any of its logon pages. If you receive one, it will not be from us and should be deleted immediately.

Be aware that there are fake websites designed to trick you and collect your personal information. Sometimes links to such websites are contained in e-mail messages purporting to come from financial institutions or other reputable organisations. Never follow a link contained in an e-mail - even if it appears to come from your bank.

Your HSBC Business Internet Banking password, together with your other internet banking credentials, permit access to your bank accounts. When creating passwords, remember the following things:

• Keep them to yourself
• No one at HSBC will ever ask you for your Internet Banking password
• Make them hard to guess
• Vary them: Try to use different passwords for different services
• Change your passwords regularly
• Never write them down

Avoid using Business Internet Banking (or any other internet services that require passwords) at internet café, libraries or any other public sites to avoid the risk of information being copied and abused after you leave.

Remember to log off from Business Internet Banking and close your browser when you have finished your online banking. This will clear all traces of your visit from the computer's memory.

This will prevent other people from using it if it is left unattended or stolen.

The 'AutoComplete' function on your computer stores information that you have previously entered, eg: addresses and passwords. Typically, the browser's own 'Help' function will tell you how to do disable the function.

It's a good idea not to use your computer in administrator mode because anyone who gains access to it will then have almost unlimited rights to see stored data or download software - including viruses. It's far better to make a user account and log in with that for day-to-day use.

A wireless network allows you to connect your computer to the internet without having to use a cable. It typically contains a wireless router, which uses radio signals to transfer data to computers within the network.

Wireless routers come preset to very insecure settings to help users connect to them for the first time - but this also means that other people could access your internet account quite easily. For this reason, you should always consult your manual or online guide to find out how to connect more securely through your wireless network - usually by creating a password.

• Review your bank and credit card statements for any unusual transactions or withdrawals and notify the bank immediately if you suspect any discrepancies
• Tell us of any changes in your personal details (eg address change)
• Keep your paper records safe. Store your bank documents in a safe place. Always shred them when they are no longer required
• If you plan to cancel a bank/credit card (or it expires), immediately destroy the card by cutting it in two through the account number and the magnetic strip

1. Install antivirus & anti-malware
2. Keep anti-virus & anti-malware applications current
3. Perform regular scans for both
4. Don't click on email links or attachments
5. Delete cookies regularly

Further information on protecting your device can be found on The National Cyber Security Centre.

Please fill in this online form, download and print a copy, then sign and return it via freepost to authorise your request.

Launch the form

Or call us to request an application pack

0345 602 2014

Lines are open from 8am to 10pm, Monday to Sunday

Textphone: 0345 712 5563

Simply fill in this online form, download and print a copy, then sign and return it via freepost to authorise your request.

Launch the form

For queries about Business Internet Banking, please call:

0345 602 2014

Lines are open 8am to 8pm Monday to Friday and 8am to 2pm on Saturday

If you're overseas, please call:

+44 1792 496 941

Lines are open 8am to 8pm Monday to Friday and 8am to 2pm on Saturday