Police are warning people to check security on mobile devices after an Australian tourist's bank account details were accessed from app purchases.

Thieves have cleared out a tourist's bank account by using credit card details stored in app purchases on a tablet stolen from the boot of his rental car in Hamilton.

Police are urging others to check their security settings after the theft from the Australian man holidaying in New Zealand at the weekend.

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The 39-year-old had parked his rental car up a driveway at a friend's house in Clarkin Rd, Hamilton overnight on Saturday.

When he returned to the car on Sunday morning he found thieves had ripped open the boot of the car and swiped several items including a tablet.

District Prevention Manager, Inspector Kent Holdsworth, said the man reported the break-in and theft of items to police in Hamilton.

"A short time later the victim came back to the police station to advise that offenders had managed to clear out his bank account using credit card details captured when he had purchased various apps such as music, movies and game credits."

Holdsworth said the victim said he was naive when it came to the security of his accounts but police believe it is an easy trap that could see other people fall victim.

"In light of this we've sought advice from the New Zealand Bankers' Association who advise customer security is a major priority for banks in this country, and their members work hard to prevent customers from becoming victims of any kind of financial crime.

"An example of this is bank systems monitor account use and can detect unusual spending patterns to help prevent attempts by fraudsters to access accounts."

Fraud safety tips:

* Use your device's password lock feature.

* Change your passwords periodically, and make sure they are not easily guessable.

* Shield your passwords from people around you.

* Contact your bank immediately if you lose your device or if it is stolen.

* Only download apps from trusted sources.

* Keep device operating systems up to date, and update apps when prompted.

* If available, use anti-virus software.

* Check your statements. Advise your bank immediately of any unauthorised transactions.

When shopping and banking online:

* Log on to internet banking by typing in your bank's full web address. Do not use links that appear to take you to your bank's website.

* Check you have a secure connection, which is shown by a padlock symbol on the page.

* Avoid public computers and public Wi-Fi for internet banking, e.g. internet cafes, libraries or hotels.

* Protect your identity information and only provide it to trusted people and organisations. This includes your date of birth, address, driver's licence number and passport details.

* Shop with trusted retailers. Before you provide personal information make sure they will protect that information.

* Keep your anti-virus and firewall software up to date.

* If you suspect you've been taken in by a scam, contact your bank and police immediately.