Westpac Internet -How Westpac protects you

How Westpac protects you

Technologies used to protect your data
Monitoring suspicious activity
Communicating to our customers
Working with industry experts

Technologies used to protect your data
SSL connection
The secure connection between your browser and the Westpac Internet Banking system uses a technology called Secure Sockets Layer (SSL). This is a well-respected technology developed by Netscape, Microsoft and RSA Inc that is supported by most browsers. Your browser will not be able to connect to the Internet Banking service without SSL.

Encryption
Westpac has implemented rigorous security mechanisms to ensure that your information and accounts are protected. The latest strong encryption technologies have been used to protect your data when being sent over the internet. Westpac Internet Banking uses certificates which generate security "keys" so you can verify you are connected to the Westpac website.

Access to your account information is controlled using your customer ID number and password and it is therefore very important for you to protect these details. As information sent between your browser and the Bank is encrypted, it makes it very difficult for anyone to get your password in transit from the internet.

Verisign digital certificates
Westpac Internet Banking uses digital certificates issued by VeriSign to protect the confidentiality and integrity of your information.

If you use one of the latest browsers and want to know more about extended validation certificates please visit our information page.

Monitoring suspicious activity
We have systems in place to constantly monitor online transactions. If we come across a suspicious looking transaction, we will investigate it to ensure there is no breach of security. Occasionally, this may involve one of our staff members contacting you to verify a transaction.

Communicating to our customers
We are making every effort to communicate internet security issues to our customers through telephone messages, advertising, media releases, using our secure messaging system and website warnings.

Working with industry experts
We are doing everything possible to close down any internet fraud scams by working closely with a number of law enforcement agencies and authorities including the Australian Federal Police and Australian High Tech Crime Centre. A small number of the industry experts with whom Westpac collaborates are listed below. They utilise their expertise and resources to ensure a secure banking environment.

The Australian Crime Commission's role is to improve Australia's ability to meet the threats posed by crime, by reducing the incidence and impact of serious and organised criminal activity. It also operates an Identity Fraud Intelligence facility.
www.crimecommission.gov.au

The Australian Federal Police (AFP) enforces Commonwealth criminal law, and protects Commonwealth and national interests from crime in Australia and overseas. The AFP is Australia's international law enforcement and policing representative, and the chief source of advice to the Australian Government on policing issues.
www.afp.gov.au

The Australian High Tech Crime Centre provides a national coordinated approach to combating serious, complex and/or multi-jurisdictional high tech crimes. It is hosted by the Australian Federal Police in Canberra and includes representation from all Australian State and Territory police forces.
www.ahtcc.gov.au

The Australian Bankers' Association is the national organisation of licensed banks. The role of the Association is to improve the economic wellbeing of Australians by fostering a banking system that is one of the safest, dynamic and most efficient in the world.
www.bankers.asn.au

AUSTRAC is Australia's anti-money laundering regulator and specialist financial intelligence unit. It oversees compliance with the reporting requirements of the Financial Transaction Reports Act 1988 by a wide range of financial service providers, the gambling industry and others.
www.austrac.gov.au

Quick tip

Check your last sign in time (at the top of the screen) whenever you sign into Internet Banking.

Report scams and fraudsters

Suspicious of a hoax email or worried about an online scam? Report your concerns.

Glossary

Arm yourself with knowledge on the different viruses and types of fraud used by criminals. Read our glossary of terms.