Can I use my account abroad?
We do not place any restrictions on logging in to an account and placing trades while accessing an account from abroad. Public Wi-Fi hotspots are usually unsecured and therefore we would advise that you avoid using them when accessing your Hargreaves Lansdown account online abroad. However, if you do choose to access it using a public network, then we would suggest that you take note of the following measures to increase security:
- Always ensure that you are logged out after each session (use the log out button located in the top right hand corner rather than simply closing the browser).
- Always pick the securest network and avoid those networks marked 'unsecured'. Secure networks display a padlock icon when you click on the wireless network connection and require a password (please be aware, this password may be given to others who wish to use the network so you may still be at risk).
- Most operating systems, e.g.Windows, will give you the option to set your location to 'Public Network' when connecting to a network. This follows the logic of not wanting to share folders on a public network, and will block file and printer sharing.
- Never save/store your password or other sensitive data.
- Try and pick a unique password for your Hargreaves Lansdown account, i.e. one that you have not used for other accounts such as your email provider. When you are logged in to your account, all communications are encrypted using secure protocols, which is evidenced by the padlock icon on the address bar.