Net banking has the lowest levels of fraud of any of the major forms of banking. However, it does get a lot of "Current Affair" type of press.
The three things you have to remember to do:
* keep your password to yourself. Don't tell anyone what it is. Change it from time to time. Banks will never ask you for your password,
particularly if they ring you.
* keep your computer up to date, use (and update) anti-virus and anti-spyware tools.
*
banks do not send e-mails to you with links in them. Always type the bank URL in yourself to log on to Internet Banking.
If you insist on using peer to peer software to commit copyright infringement, like Kazaa, or eDonkey, be aware that the vast overwhelming majority of this type of software (even the "lite" versions or some Bit Torrent clients which claim to be free of them) have spyware in them. Some really offensive programs use an intercepting proxy and report back your username and password to a third party and your information and browsing habits are sold to other companies. Get it off your PC immediately.
If you get an e-mail from a bank, 99% of the time it is a fraud (phishing) attempt. Do not click any links in e-mails asking you to confirm your password or account details. If you get a suspicious e-mail, look at your bank's web site - they
will have an e-mail address where you can report the spoof. In the NAB's case, it's
spoof@national.com.au
If you think something's wrong, e-mail or phone the bank immediately. You're only liable if you've been negligent (ie gave the password out, etc), or failed to report the issue. Even then, most banks have limits for this liability.
Andrew