Security tips for public computers

What is a public computer?
A public (or shared) computer is any PC that can be used by someone other than you.

For example, those at Internet cafes, libraries, a friend or flat-mate's computer, schools, shopping centres, hotels, airports, pubs, youth hostels and some workplaces where more than one person has access to the same PC.

How is a public computer different to a private computer when using Internet Banking?
A public computer may not be as safe as a private computer. Possible risks include:

• Increased viruses
• Unauthorised software
• Maximum security options not set

If you are not sure about the security level of the public computer you are using, we recommend you find a safer place to do your online banking.

Is my information private when using a public computer?
If you use a public computer you should be aware that whoever uses the computer after you, may be able to view the Internet pages you have visited. For this reason, we recommend you follow these steps to help safeguard your privacy.

• Always sign out of Internet Banking to close the active session. If you do not sign out, but merely close the browser window the Internet Banking session will remain active on the hard drive for [seven] minutes
• Close your browser after signing out of the Internet Banking session
• Change your browser settings so that the secure pages you access are not saved on the hard drive

If you are unable to complete these actions on the shared computer, we suggest you wait to do your banking in a safer place.

Where can I find more information on security?
Read our Internet Banking security overview for more information on protecting your privacy.

Westpac Bank -PNG- Limited


Westpac has branch locations in Fiji, Cook Islands, Solomon Islands and Vanuatu. Westpac is represented in Papua New Guinea by Westpac Bank -PNG- Limited, Samoa by Westpac Bank Samoa Limited and in Tonga by Westpac Bank of Tonga.