Scam Warning over Fake Bank Texts

Fraudsters send messages to people saying there has been a fraud on their accounts aimed at trying to steal security information. Financial Fraud Action UK (FFA UK) is warning people about texts which claim there has been a fraud on their account or that the account details need updating.

The messages urge people to call a number or visit a website, both of which are controlled by the fraudster, which enables them to steal security details.

To make the texts seem more realistic, the scammers use technology which sends the texts using the name of the bank. The texts can also state the person may expect a call from the bank’s fraud department, when in fact the criminal is calling them.

FFA UK has put out some advice on how to avoid falling for text scams:

• Be suspicious of any text message that asks you to provide sensitive personal information, passwords or to make transactions.

• If you’re asked to call the number given in the text message and the number is unknown to you or suspicious, call your bank on a number that you trust – such as the one on the back of your card – to check the number and message is authentic.

Remember your bank will NEVER:

• Phone you to ask for your 4-digit card PIN or your online banking password.

• Ask you to update your personal details by following a link in a text message.

• Tell you over the phone how to respond to a text message confirming a transaction.

• Ask you to transfer money to a new account for fraud reasons, even if they say it is in your name.