Scam calls

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

Top tips to stay safe

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.
Protect your personal information: don’t share information such as bank account details or passwords with unknown callers.
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.
Stay informed: stay up to date on the latest scams by visiting My Security Profile in the help section of your mobile app.
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

When do you need to tell your bank about a suspicious call?

Tell your bank if you provided any of your personal security details or card details during the call. You should contact us immediately on 03457 888 444 (relay UK 18001 03457 888 444). See our call charge information for the cost of your call, and more guidance on how to report fraud and scams.

Did you know you can report scam calls to Ofcom?

Report the scam call to Ofcom by 7726 as soon as you can. For more guidance please visit Ofcom website.

What other steps should you take if you've been scammed by a call?

If you believe you’ve been scammed, report it to Action Fraud. You can either call 0300 123 2040 or visit the Action Fraud website.

For reports in Scotland, please contact Police Scotland by dialling 101.

Your report can help prevent further scams and protect others in your community.

Other guides to keep your money secure

My Security Profile

Enhance your security levels.

My Security Profile is a handy tool in your mobile app. It has personalised actions for you, that are quick and simple to take.

Learn more about My Security Profile Open in new window

Text message fraud

Fraudsters can text you pretending to be a trusted organisation, such as a bank, a government department, or Royal Mail. Follow these tips to stay safe.

Text message fraud guide

Email fraud

Fraudsters can email you pretending to be a trusted organisation, such as a bank or HMRC. Follow these tips to stay safe.

Email fraud guide

Service provider scams

Scammers are posing as trusted organisations like your phone or internet provider. They want to trick you into sending money or giving away your personal info or passwords to allow them to access your account.

Service provider scams guide