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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
How to report scam calls Open in new window
Other types of fraud 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 Royal Bank of Scotland 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