The level of internet fraud aimed at getting people to part with confidential bank account details has increased by 180% in the past 12 months, according to the banking body Apacs.

The organisation revealed there were 21,000 cases of ‘phishing' fraud in the first six months of 2008, although it added that overall this year cases may fall as people became more aware of the fraud.

Phishing involves sending out fake emails - often claiming to come from banks - and inviting customers to visit bogus websites where they are asked for details such as PIN codes and account details.

"We strongly urge banking customers to make sure they remain wary of online scams such as unsolicited emails claiming to be from their bank," said Apacs spokesperson Sandra Quinn.