Consumer group Which? has issued a warning to Barclays customers about a scam text message currently circulating that claims to be from the bank. The message tells recipients that a direct debit has been set up on their account and asks them to call a number to cancel the payment. Calling the number connects them to a fraudster who aims to steal their personal information.
How to spot a fake Barclays message
Barclays says customers can check whether a message is genuine by viewing a history of all text messages the bank has sent them in the Communication Centre in the Barclays app or Online Banking. The bank explains that official fraud alerts are only sent by text when it needs to check a suspicious transaction and has a valid UK mobile number for the customer.
Customers can reply by text to confirm whether they made the transaction or to report fraud. Official messages from Barclays will only ask customers to reply Y or N when a transaction is flagged, and will never ask for personal details or security information.
Protecting yourself and reporting scams
Barclays advises recipients to "take a moment to stop and think before giving out your personal or payment details" and to refuse or ignore any requests that seem suspicious. The bank notes that only criminals will act with a sense of urgency and panic in an attempt to rush and pressure you.
Anyone who believes they have been targeted by scammers is advised to report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or at actionfraud.police.uk. Those in Scotland should report it to Police Scotland directly by calling 101. People receiving scam texts can also report them by forwarding them to 7726.
