Protect yourself online
There are a few simple things you can do to help protect yourself online, not just when using the Adviser Portal, but also when you're using the internet in general.
Select a suitable password
The first time you login to the Adviser Portal you will need to select a personal password that is easy for you to remember, but difficult for anyone else to guess. Unsuitable passwords include number and letter combinations that may be easily guessed (e.g. 3456, ABC, 1111, AAA), passwords used by you for other banking or non-banking services, or other easily accessible personal information (e.g. birth date, family, pet or street names).
Always protect your password
Never write your password down or give it out to anyone. Remember that we will never ask you for your password. It is also important that you change your online password regularly. To do this, login to the Adviser Portal, select 'Adviser' from the menu and then select 'Change Password'.
Apex Investment Administration (NZ) Limited recommends you change your password every 60 days.
Let us know if you suspect that your password is known by someone
It is important that you let us know as soon as you suspect or know that your password is known by someone else or if there has been any unauthorised activity on your account. You can contact us on 0800 800 638.
Always logout
You should logout and close your browser window after you've finished using any internet services or if you are leaving your desk.
Check that the website is secure
To check if a site is secure, look for https:// at the start of your browsers' address bar. You should also look for the padlock in your browser window, to show that your session is being encrypted. You can then double-click on the padlock to see the level of security being used.
Be careful with emails
Emails are a common way to spread harmful codes or to trick you into revealing your internet information. Don't open emails from unknown senders. If you are in doubt about the source of an email, for example if you don't recognise the sender, don't click on any links within the email and delete it. Never open unexpected attachments.
While we will email you from time to time, we will never link to the sign on page of our Adviser Portal website.
Secure your computer
Use a personal firewall
A personal firewall is your first line of defence between your computer and the outside world. It helps control who can access your computer and protects you from viruses and any other unwelcome visitors.
Some options include:
Install anti-virus software
Viruses, which can be extremely destructive, are pieces of code that attach to your computer. A virus usually accesses your computer via email attachments or from software you install from a CD or DVD or download from the internet. By installing anti-virus software you can protect your computer against the latest viruses. You may already have anti-virus software on your computer, but for it to be effective it must be updated regularly.
Some options include:
Get anti-spyware software
Spyware is a file placed on your computer that can provide information on what you are doing online to a third party. In its worst form, spyware can be used to access personal information such as bank accounts or credit card details. Use should use up-to-date anti-spyware software to protect against programmes that fraudsters can use to collect this information.
These are easy to download and are generally available online for free. You should make sure to regularly update your software.
Regularly update your operating system
Get the latest software updates from the company that produces your operating system to protect against any security threats. Security updates are released regularly to fix holes in a computer's operating system. You should regularly check your vendor's website to see whether operating system updates are available or select to receive updates automatically.
Beware of using public or shared computers
Be wary of using other computers (e.g. in an internet cafe, library or university) to access online banking. It's impossible to know if they have up to date protection and you're likely to be overlooked by others.