Security certificates

Secure Sockets (SSL) Layer certificates

Any page of the Bank of Scotland website that contains sensitive information is protected by a technology known as SSL. 

This stands for Secure Sockets Layer encryption - essentially a scrambling device that ensures private information cannot be accessed when it passes from your computer to ours. 

You can tell if you are on an SSL page when you see a yellow padlock on the screen.

By clicking a link in a phishing email you could be taken to a spoof website set up to trick you into disclosing personal information, such as your bank account details and passwords.

Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to help protect yourself from these attacks.

How to verify a security certificate

• Check the yellow lock icon on the status bar
• If the lock is closed, then the site uses encryption
• Double-click the lock icon to display the security certificate for the site.  This certificate is proof of the identity for the site
• The name following ‘Issued to’ should match the site you think you are on
• If the name is different you could be on a spoof website
• If you're uncertain about a site’s security do not enter any personal details