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Fraud guide

Scam calls

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Tips to avoid scam calls Open in new window
How to spot scam calls Open in new window
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Scam watch: Bank impersonation scams are on the rise

Be aware of fake messages or calls supposedly from NatWest claiming a payment is on hold or asking you to verify a transaction. Learn more about how to avoid this scam.

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Top tips to stay safe

Scammers can call you pretending to be someone else, like your family, a bank, or police. Follow these tips to protect yourself.

  1. Be wary of strange calls: if the caller rushes you to do something, like give away your personal information or send money, then it could be a scam.
  2. Protect your personal information: don’t share information such as bank account details or passwords with unknown callers.
  3. Verify the caller: if you are unsure about a call, hang up and call using a trusted number, such as one from an official website.
  4. Stay informed: stay up to date on the latest scams by visiting My Security Profile in the help section of your mobile app.
  5. Use call blocking: set up call blocking with your phone provider to reduce the number of scams calls.

How to spot scam calls

Look out for these things to avoid scam calls.
  • Urgent requests: scammers will try to rush or panic you into making quick decisions.
  • Secure account requests: scammers often ask you to transfer money to a ‘safe’ or ‘secure’ account. A genuine organisation will never ask you to do this.
  • Threats: scammers may use threats, such as fines, to scare you into sending them money or give away personal information.
  • Download requests: scammers might ask you to download a program on your phone or computer that will let them see the information on your device. A genuine organisation will never do this.
  • Deepfakes: scammers use artificial intelligence (AI) to make themselves sound like someone you know or a trusted organisation. Listen out for robotic voices and strange or repetitive background noise. Contact the person or company a different way to check the information. Hang up as soon as you suspect a scam.

How to report scam calls

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