Bank of Ireland issues online banking security update

Bank of Ireland would like to make online banking customers aware of the recent increase in Ireland in the use of fraudulent web pages and emails to obtain confidential customer financial information.

Currently, some online users PCs may have been infected with a virus that is triggered when they log onto a website that is password or security protected. The objective is to collect confidential logon details and security passwords, which can then be used to perpetrate fraud on customers' accounts or with their data. Bank of Ireland confirms that none of its systems have been compromised and that there has been no security breach of any its websites.

'Keeping customer information secure is a top priority for us, but it is also important for customers to protect confidential information when online, advises Cormac O'Byrne, Head of Group Information Security at Bank of Ireland. 'Everyone who uses the internet should be cautioned to install and keep their anti-virus software updated, ideally on a daily basis. This is essential for those who use their PC's for financial transactions, such as online banking and credit card purchases'.

Bank of Ireland recommends that any customer who receives emails purporting to be from their bank or if any unusual screens appear when logging onto their online banking facility to please report it immediately. Any unsolicited requests for Bank of Ireland account information you receive through pop-up windows or emails should be considered fraudulent and should be reported immediately. Further information on online banking security is available at www.365online.ie

If you believe you have provided information to a fraudulent site or notice anything unusual when using a Bank of Ireland website, please contact us at the following numbers and an agent will offer assistance:

Personal Customers
-1890 365 200/ 1890 365 365 in ROI
-0845 7 365 555 in Northern Ireland
-0845 7 365 333 in Great Britain
-+353 1 4044000 if you are outside these locations
Agent assistance is available until to midnight Monday-Friday (exc Bank Holidays) & 10:00-14:00 on Saturday.

Business Customers
Email queries to business.online@boimail.com

Ends.

For further information contact:

Cormac O'Byrne
Head of Group Information Security
Bank of Ireland
Tel: 01 2363635

Mary Brennan
Group Corporate Communications
Bank of Ireland
Tel: 01 6043838