Internet Banking

What is internet banking?

Many, if not most, banking transactions can and do take place on the internet.
Most major banks provide an internet banking service and there are also some internet only banking companies who offer all their services online and do not have high street branches. Some of these companies provide a range of accounts to choose from, some specialise in just one.
Many of these are listed at the bottom of this page.

Why have an internet account?

Benefits
  • Accessibility – Internet and internet accounts are usually accessible 24 hours per day, seven days a week.
  • Ease and convenience – Those who find it difficult to get to a branch within working hours and those who travel frequently will find internet banking a practical alternative.
  • Value – Internet only banking services often offer best value as they have less running costs.
Considerations

Please note that with internet accounts, however secure your password and other details are, you need to be vigilant about scams such as phishing, where fraudsters pose as your bank, often by email and encourage you to give them crucial details of your account. It is always worth checking with the provider to see what measures are in place to reduce the possibilities of this happening.
Banks will never usually ask you to confirm any confidential details via an email so you should be suspicious if you receive such an email. There are some examples of this type of email here.

Choosing an internet account

Security is an important issue for internet accounts. Internet banking can be highly secure but you need to be aware of safety precautions to take.
Always take the time to read the small print too – it takes a few minutes, but it should help you understand the service.

Types of internet bank accounts and services include:

  • Current Accounts – All the conveniences of a regular current account, including credit and debit cards, cheque books and regular statements
  • Current Accounts – with specific benefits (for instance, roadside recovery) and a small monthly fee to pay
  • All in one and off-set accounts
  • Student accounts
  • Loan approval
  • Savings Accounts – Favourable interest rates because the overheads are reduced.
  • Savings Accounts – Including those with tiered rates depending on the savings amount
  • ISAs and mini-ISAs
  • Mortgages
  • Share Trading
  • Ethical Investments
  • Insurance Services
  • Business Bank Accounts

Internet banking links