How you can protect your computer

We take your security very seriously and so should you.

There are a few simple steps that you should take to ensure that your PC remains healthy so that it is able to fend off malicious attacks that could lead to the compromise of your personal and financial security.

Simple steps to help protect your computer

Windows System updates

One of the things that malware will attempt to do is take advantage of weaknesses and gaps in Windows security system. Windows work to ensure that they have patches to block up any weaknesses and gaps but it is the responsibility of the computer owner to ensure that these patches are downloaded.

Benefits of updating:

  • Protects your computer against malware.
  • Helps to protect against some cyber-criminal attacks.
  • Improves performance.
  • Fixes bugs.
  • Adds features.

How to update:

If you haven't already done so, we would always recommend switching on the Windows Automatic Updates. You can find out how to switch this on here.

You can also manually update Windows here.

Help and further information:

  • We would also recommend further information on Windows Updates at Get Safe Online.

Use a firewall

A firewall is a protective barrier designed to block unauthorised access while permitting authorised communications.

You may have previously seen a firewall in use when trying to download some software from the internet. You will be warned when the computer is trying to download something and asked for authorisation to carry out the download. This is Windows built-in firewall that is provided in XP, Vista and 7.

How to check if your firewall is turned on: Installing or checking the settings of your Windows firewall can be done by going to the Security Centre in the Control Panel.

Help and further information:

  • We would also recommend further information on firewalls at Get Safe Online.

Install anti-virus software

Anti-virus software is an essential tool to keep your computer safe and secure. Without it you are leaving yourself open to growing varieties of viruses and Trojans (malware) that are on the Internet. Up to date anti-virus software is able to block malware from infecting your computer as well as detect and remove malware that is already present.

Help and further information:

TrustDefender

Tesco Bank has teamed up with TrustDefender to bring you their latest security software, specifically designed to provide an additional layer of security for your Tesco Bank Online Banking.

TrustDefender is available now for all Tesco Bank Savings, Loan and Credit Card accounts. What's more, it's easy to use and completely free to download.

TrustDefender is different to anti-virus software in the following ways:

  • Isolates your Online Banking session from unidentified applications and secures your connection to Tesco Bank.
  • Identifies and alerts you to a wide range of security risks on your computer, and shows you how you can resolve them.
  • Guards against phishing - The TrustDefender notification bar is displayed whenever you access Online Banking, so you can be sure you're on the real Tesco Bank Online Banking website.

TrustDefender will work alongside your existing anti-virus and will not impact on the performance of your computer.

Please visit our TrustDefender page for more information, including how to download it and FAQs.

Your internet browser

Many internet browsers have security features which help to protect you when you're online. To benefit from the best security make sure you always use the most up-to-date version and install any available updates.

Our Online Banking system requirements

To ensure you get the best possible experience when using Online Banking, view our list of recommended operating systems and internet browsers:
Online Banking system requirements

We would also recommend further information on how to protect your computer at Get Safe Online, which is a joint initiative between Government, law enforcement, leading businesses and the public sector.

Contact us

If you have some questions to ask why not get in touch...

  • Find out more about contacting us...