This growing crime is a form of identity theft, where a fraudster gains control of a victim’s bank account and then makes unauthorised payments. This usually happens in one of two ways:
This is typically when someone calls you pretending to be from HSBC or another trusted organisation, such as the Police or a utility provider, and persuades you to provide them with Digital Banking usernames, passwords, and secure key codes in order to stop a “fraudulent” payment. However, whilst you are on the call, they use this information to gain access to your internet banking and make fraudulent payments.
Watch our recent webinar where we discuss different phone scams including Remote Access Takeovers
The use of Remote Access Tools/Software has grown significantly over the last few years. There have been instances of computer ‘pop ups’ prompting you to call a fake number or, the fraudsters call you directly and persuade you to download software which they can then use to control your device. They again impersonate trusted organisations such as HSBC or your IT provider and, they inform you that you have a connection issue, a computer virus on your device or more commonly, they need you to logon to your digital banking so they can stop a fraudulent payment. Using the downloaded software, the fraudster can see your screen, control your device and has the opportunity to make payments out of your account.
If you believe you have been a victim of this type of fraud, please report it to us or your bank.
You should also report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or via the Action Fraud website. If you are in Scotland, please report to Police Scotland directly by calling 101.
