How to protect yourself from APP fraud

Criminals are experts at impersonating people, organisations, and the police.  They spend hours researching you for their scams, hoping you’ll let your guard down for just a moment.  Stop and think.  It could protect you and your money.

Before making a payment, follow advice from https://www.takefive-stopfraud.org.uk/

STOP: Take a moment to stop and think before parting with your money or information. It could keep you safe.

CHALLENGE: Ask yourself, could it be fake? It’s ok to reject, refuse or ignore any requests. Only criminals will try to rush or panic you.

• Do your research and be suspicious of any too-good-to-be-true offers or prices
• Remember, your bank, building society or the police will never ask you to transfer money to a safe account
• If you’re unsure or are suspicious, then talk to a trusted friend or family member before making your payment

PROTECT: Contact your bank or building society immediately if you think you’ve been scammed and report it to Action Fraud at actionfraud.police.uk or on 0330 123 2040.

When you are making a payment:

• Always follow any advice or warnings from your bank, building society or payment services provider.
• Your bank or building society might ask you extra questions about a payment.  This is to help keep you safe.
• Always answer these questions truthfully.  If someone is asking you to lie or telling you what to say to your bank or building society, then it’s very likely to be a scam.

It might take a little longer for a payment to leave your account.  This is so your bank or building society has time to do extra checks to keep you safe from fraud.