There are a number of ways the bank can help you to protect and keep your money safe. How does the bank really know that they are dealing with you? What can you do to also help protect your money. Here are a couple of handy hints.
A bank account is where the bank keeps a record of your money transactions – money coming in and money coming out.
A bank account is identified by a BSB number and an account number.
Sometimes called a customer ID this number is unique to you and is what you use for online or telephone banking. It is different from your BSB and account number.
The bank will always want to make sure they are speaking to the owner of the bank account. This is so the bank can protect you and your money.
Let the bank know if any of your details change so they can update their records and continue to keep your money safe.
Your PIN is a 4-digit secret number that allows you to access your money. A PIN should be a number that you can remember but others cannot guess.
It is important not to share this number with anyone otherwise they can use your PIN to take money out of your bank account without your permission.
Also known as internet banking, online banking is a very convenient way to access your bank account without having to go to a bank branch. Online banking can be accessed via a computer or a smart phone.
It is a good idea to have a strong password to access online banking. Again, it is important not to share this password otherwise other people can access your money without permission. If using a public or shared computer remember to always log out so the next person cannot access your account.
A bank statement is a list of bank account transactions as recorded by the bank. It is a record of money going in and money going out of your bank account.
It is important to regularly check your bank statements for transactions you do not recognise. Contact the bank if there is something not quite right.
If you have lost your bank card contact the bank. They can place a stop on the card to prevent anyone using it without your permission and organise a replacement card to be sent to you.
Westpac Indigenous call centre team: 1800 230 144
Westpac acknowledges the First Peoples of Australia and recognises their ongoing role as Traditional Owners of the land and waters of this country. We acknowledge Westpac’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employees, partners, and stakeholders, and pay our respects to their Elders, both past and present.
This information is general in nature and has been prepared without taking your objectives, needs and overall financial situation into account. For this reason, you should consider the appropriateness for the information to your own circumstances and, if necessary, seek appropriate professional advice.
© Westpac Banking Corporation ABN 33 007 457 141 AFSL and Australian credit licence 233714.