We use a high level of tiered security for the private trading areas of BOSdeal and achieve multifactor authentication by splitting the customer validation process into three components:

1. Bank of Scotland Treasury Digital Certificate
2. Unique user name and password
3. 128-bit encryption through a Secure Sockets Layer (SSL)

This tiered security provides the following benefits:

A digital certificate is an electronic identity card. When you log in to BOSdeal we use your unique digital certificate to identify you. Only a valid certificate with the correct user name and password will enable access to the service. By using digital certificates we provide an extra level of security over and above user name and password authentication. We can accurately identify users of our service and provide you with the added confidence that no one else can access your details on BOSdeal.

To ensure you have control of your funds at all times, BOSdeal will only transfer funds to your pre-arranged bank accounts, known as "standard settlement instructions".

If you hold Bank of Scotland accounts we will automatically transfer your funds on the same day.

Alternatively if you maintain accounts with other financial institutions, then it is your responsibility to remit funds to us via standard industry same-day value clearing systems e.g. CHAPS & SWIFT.

Yes; you can set up several BOSdeal users within your organisation, each having different trading limits. It is also possible to create a zero limit for a user – effectively creating a 'view only' role.

Each individual user with trading limits has the ability to trade – and only one user is required to validate the transaction.

1. After passing security checks you will be provided with your unique digital certificate which is downloaded onto your PC.
2. Your user name and password will then be issued, enabling access to the BOSdeal application.

Follow the instructions below:

• Microsoft Internet Explorer:
1. Select 'Tools' from the menu at the top of the Internet Browser
2. Select 'Internet Options'
3. Select 'Content'
4. Select 'Certificates'
5. The Digital Certificate will be displayed in the 'Certificate Manager' window

• Mozilla Firefox:
1. Select 'Tools' from the menu at the top of the Internet Browser
2. Select 'Options' and choose 'Advanced' from the menu bar
3. Within the 'Encryption' tab, select 'View Certificates'
4. The Digital Certificate will be displayed in the 'Certificate Manager' window as part of the 'Your Certificates' tab

• Apple's Safari (on Windows):
1. This is located outside of the Safari browser
2. From the Windows 'Start' bar, choose 'Control Panel'
3. Select 'Internet Options'
4. Select 'Content'
5. Select 'Certificates'
6. The Digital Certificate will be displayed in the 'Certificate Manager' window

• Opera:
1. Select 'Tools' from the menu at the top of the Browser
2. Select 'Preferences' and choose the 'Advanced' tab
3. From the left hand menu select 'Security'
4. Select 'Manage Certificates' button
5. The Digital Certificate will be displayed in the 'Certificate Manager' window, under the 'Personal' tab