NatWest customers are being warned not to ‘take the bait’ and click on links in emails that ask them to verify or update their account details as they are phishing scams sent by criminals trying to steal personal and financial information. Action Fraud recently raised the alarm on X (formerly twitter) after it received 1,478 reports of fake emails purporting to be from NatWest in just two weeks. The emails claim that the recipient needs to ‘verify’ or ‘update’ their bank account information in order to maintain access to their online banking. However, Action Fraud warns that the links in the emails lead to malicious websites that are designed to steal personal and financial information. Action Fraud posted on X: “Have you received one of these emails asking you to verify or update your NatWest account details? Don’t take the bait! The emails are FAKE and the links lead to malicious websites that are designed to steal your personal and financial information.” Advice from Action Fraud is that if you have doubts about a message, contact the organisation directly. Don’t use the numbers or address in the message – use the details from their official website. Your bank, or any other official source, will never ask you to supply personal information through email. If you receive a suspicious email, you can forward it to the Suspicious Email Reporting Service (SERS) – report@phishing.gov.uk. People in Scotland can also report any suspected scams to its scamwatch service – run by Advice Direct Scotland – which can then be shared with the relevant authorities. Find out more about the service here. Sophisticated scams to look out for this winter Robocalls How they work During a robocall, an automated voice will reel off a message, seemingly from a trusted or legitimate source. Examples include your bank, the police or even your insurance company. The call checks if your number is still in service or can potentially sway unsuspecting victims into sending personal information or money. How to protect yourself You should not answer calls from unknown numbers, especially as frequently answering robocalls will lead to receiving more. In addition, you should never reveal personal information or send money to a stranger. However, if you do pick up, you should hang up and block the number immediately to prevent future instances. Cryptocurrency Scams How they work In most cases, a cryptocurrency scam involves an individual offering to invest in cryptocurrency for you for an upfront fee. Thieves then steal the fee and further personal information, such as your bank details, under the guise of using it for investment purposes. How to protect yourself You should always be very careful trusting others with cryptocurrency, especially as the market is very unpredictable. In addition, you should use traditional and trusted investment methods, rather than hiring via social media ads, and always ensure your crypto wallet is as secure as possible. Malware Attacks How they work Malware is a type of malicious software (such as viruses, trojan horses or worms) that can infiltrate your computer system, publishing or blocking access to available data or the system. Often utilising encryption tools, the hacker is then able to demand a ransom for the safe return of technology, usually in a certain time period. Failure to do so can result in the deletion of vital data or an increase in financial demands. How to protect yourself In 2022, 39% of UK businesses identified cyberattacks within their organisations, including UKVCAS, the UK Home Office’s visa service. Any business is susceptible, so having an excellent IT infrastructure and staff aware of how to avoid malware is essential. Fake Job Offers How they work Employment fraud is on the rise and involves a fraudster claiming to work as a recruitment agent who wants to hire you. These jobs are often unbelievable, dangling incredible salaries and benefits for few qualifications. Unfortunately – they are, with the fraudster preying on experienced individuals who will reveal personal information or offer an advanced fee for training programs, laptops or other objects. How to protect yourself By learning about suspicious behaviour, and second-guessing ‘too-good-to-be-true’ jobs, you can apply to secure and genuine roles. Always check the company’s website, phone the HR department and double-check the business’ location and details. Cybercrime How it works Cybercrime effectively functions as a business, with criminals working together to exploit any security vulnerabilities or human errors by hacking into technology. This then allows them to steal passwords, sensitive information or money, which can all be devastating. How to protect yourself Unfortunately, open-source malware is becoming readily available, especially on platforms inhabited by younger generations. By teaching your children about the dangers of cybercrime and using strong passwords, up-to-date software, and taking measures to protect your information, you can avoid being targeted. Join the Daily Record’s WhatsApp community here and get the latest news sent straight to your messages.
New NatWest email warning for every customer with access to an online bank account
