Automated robocall scam impersonating banks with fake suspicious transaction alerts

What is this scam?

UK Finance has issued a warning about a surge in automated phone calls impersonating banks and card providers. Victims receive a robocall claiming a suspicious transaction has been flagged on their account and are prompted to press a number to speak with a 'fraud agent' — who is actually a fraudster attempting to extract card details, PINs, or persuade the victim to move funds to a 'secure account'. Genuine banks never cold-call customers and ask them to press a number to verify financial details; anyone who receives such a call should hang up and dial 159 to reach their real bank safely.

Example scam message

Red flags to look out for

• The message creates urgency — threatening a fine, missed delivery, or account closure.
• Links lead to unofficial domains that don't match the real company's website.
• You weren't expecting this message and can't verify the event it references.
• It asks you to confirm payment details or personal information via a link.
• The sender's number or email address doesn't match the company's official contact.

What to do if you receive this

1. Do not transfer money — your bank will never ask you to move funds to a 'safe account'.
2. Hang up and call your bank directly on the number printed on the back of your card.
3. Report it to Action Fraud at actionfraud.police.uk.
4. If you've already transferred money, contact your bank immediately and ask about the APP fraud refund scheme.