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Fraud guide

Scam text messages

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Scam watch: Fake bank text alerts are on the rise

Be aware of text messages, supposedly being sent by NatWest telling you a payment is on hold.  We’ll never ask you to call a number in a text message to confirm or cancel payments. Learn more about how to avoid this scam.

Top tips to stay safe

Scam text messages are when fraudsters text you pretending to be a trusted organisation, such as a bank, a government department, or Royal Mail. Follow these tips to stay safe.

  1. Check the sender: be wary of sudden text messages from unknown senders. Ignore suspicious texts and block the number. Forward any suspicious texts to us at 88355, standard network rates apply.
  2. Avoid clicking links: don’t click links or download files from sudden text messages. Especially if they claim to be from the bank, a government agency, delivery company or service provider. These links may lead to fake websites that steal your info.
  3. Verify transactions: fraudsters can claim that there was a purchase, transaction or suspicious activity on your bank account. Check this in your mobile app or call the number on the back of your card.
  4. Protect your personal information: don’t share bank account details, passwords, or One Time Passcodes. Genuine organisations will not request this type of information through texts. Never share Get Cash codes with anyone claiming to be us who tells you they need it for authorisation purposes.
  5. Stay informed: stay up to date on the latest scams by visiting My Security Profile in the help section of your mobile app.
Example of a fake text message

Fake text message example

This fake text message example shows how criminals use different tactics to convince people to share their personal information or banking details. These tactics are used in messaging apps, not just text messages. Learn about the three tactics below.

How to spot scam text messages

Scammers use different tactics to trick you into believing they are genuine. Here are the most common ones.

  • Urgent requests: fraudsters will rush you into making quick decisions. They might say that they’ve noticed a problem or suspicious activity on your account to get your personal information.
  • Threats: scammers may threaten you with fines or even criminal charges to scare you. Always take your time and check the information before making any decisions.
  • Missed delivery: fraudsters may pretend to be Royal Mail, DPD or other delivery companies and ask you to click links to pay shipping fees or provide personal details for missed deliveries. 
  • Offers: criminals try to trick you by offering refunds, free gifts, or prizes. If it seems too good to be true, it’s probably a scam.

Common text message scams

A screenshot of a text message claiming to be from the HMRC. The message informs the recipient they have a tax refund to claim through a link.

Scammers may pose as HMRC to persuade you to send them money or steal your details.

HMRC scam guide Open in new window
Screenshot of a scam text message that starts ‘Hi mum!’ pretending to be from a child, saying their phone was damaged, their SIM no longer works, and asking the parent to save a new phone number.

Fraudsters send you a message pretending to be your friend or family member.

Friends & family impersonator guide Open in new window
Scam text message impersonating a broadband provider, saying the latest bill couldn’t be processed and asking the recipient to click a link to update payment details to avoid losing service or fees.

Scammers are skilled in posing as trusted organisations like your phone or internet provider.

Spot service provider scams Open in new window
Scam message impersonating a delivery company, claiming a parcel could not be delivered and asking the recipient to click a link to reschedule delivery.

Scam delivery texts impersonate well-known delivery brands to get your personal information such as your name and address. They may also try to steal banking details such as card numbers or charge you money.

How to report scam texts

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