Protect yourself

1. Protect your HL login details

One of the most important rules to remember is, once set up don’t share your login details with anyone – even if you think you can trust them. For example, after you’ve chosen your Secure Number, we’ll never ask for the whole thing again. If you’re ever asked for all six digits, even on our website, stop right away and report it to us.

You might be accidentally sharing if you’re storing your login details insecurely. If you have to make a record of your login details, make sure they’re kept somewhere secure and never store your passwords and usernames together.

Another simple way to protect your account is to use unique and strong passwords and to change them regularly. Best practice is to use a unique mix of letters, numbers, and symbols, steering clear of personal info or common words and phrases.

2. Why cybersecurity is important

Huge numbers of threats are identified every day so protecting your devices should be a top priority. Setting up a firewall, anti-virus and anti-spyware software and keeping them up to date will give you the best chance of protecting your personal details.

You can get help to pick the right software for your PC, mobile or tablets at Get Safe Online. If you use your devices out and about, avoid connecting to unsecured wireless networks (Wi-Fi). No matter how strong your virus software is, it can’t do anything to protect you if you’re accessing the internet through unsecure Wi-Fi. Look for the padlock icon before connecting and turn your Wi-Fi off when you’re not using it.

3. What to do about fraudulent calls, emails, and texts

Always take care when you’re contacted out of the blue, no matter where they say they’re contacting you from. Scammers can copy logos and styles to look real – even going as far as making ‘spoof’ websites to try and get your login details.

Examine emails closely for anything that looks off, question anyone calling claiming to be from your provider, and if you’re not completely comfortable never give out your personal info. If you’re ever in doubt, hang up and call them back on a number you know is real.

Scammers might also promise high guaranteed returns with low or non-existent risk. Remember, if something sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Another trick is to pressure you into sending money to take advantage of a time-limited offer and ask you not to tell anyone about it. Don’t be afraid to ask for names, addresses and registration numbers and check these against official websites like UK Companies House or the overseas equivalent and check the FCA authorisation status by visiting the FCA website.

4. How to keep your personal information safe

Your identity and personal info are valuable commodities. There are some simple steps you can take to keep it safe from fraudsters.

Keep a close eye on your credit reports and statements for suspicious activity. Let your bank, workplace, card issuer and any other organisations you deal with know when you’ve moved house. You can get Royal Mail to redirect any post to your new address.

Keep all your documents in a safe place and securely destroy any you don’t want. If any documents are stolen, report it right away.

Email isn’t a secure way of communicating, so don’t send personal info this way and be careful of anyone that asks you to.

Again, if you’re ever unsure, contact the organisation directly and talk it through with them.

5. Stay informed

The internet has a lot of useful information on protecting yourself and keeping up to date on the latest trends, threats, and news. Use sites like Scambusters, Action Fraud, Get Safe Online, Citizens Advice, FCA’s ScamSmart and the Serious Fraud Office to stay up to date.