Frauds & Scams
Stay One Step Ahead of Fraud
Fraud and scam attempts are becoming increasingly sophisticated, targeting individuals through emails, phone calls, text messages and online platforms. Understanding how frauds and scams work can help you stay one step ahead. Explore practical guidance on recognising warning signs, protecting your personal and financial information and taking immediate action if you believe you may have been targeted.
How to Protect Yourself from Fraud?
Protect Information
Do not share your passwords, PINs, security codes or banking credentials. The Bank will never ask you to share your passwords, PINs, security codes or banking credentials.
Stay Alert
Verify who is contacting you before sharing any personal or financial information. Fraudsters often pretend to be banks, government organisations, utility providers or trusted businesses.
Verify Requests Independently
Authorise payment requests using contact details you trust. Do not use telephone numbers, email addresses or links provided in unsolicited messages.
Check Accounts Regularly
Review your account activity and statements frequently. Report any transactions you do not recognise immediately.
Think You Have Been Targeted by a Scam?
Fraudsters use a variety of methods to steal money and personal information. They often pretend to be trusted organisations or individuals to gain your confidence. If you feel concerned, contact your Relationship Manager (RM), visit your nearest branch or email us at contactuk@habibbank.com. Understanding the warning signs can help you stay protected.
Know the Warning Signs
Be cautious if someone:
- Creates a sense of urgency, fear or pressures you to act quickly
- Asks you to keep something secret
- Requests money unexpectedly
- Promises guaranteed returns or easy profits
- Asks for personal or banking information
- Claims you have been selected for an exclusive opportunity
A genuine bank or business will never pressure you into making immediate payments or decisions. If you are unsure, do not proceed, take time to verify the request independently. Contact your RM or call us on +44 (300) 123 2040.
Staying Safe Online
Do:
- Use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication where available
- Keep your devices, apps and software up to date
- Check your bank statements regularly and report any transactions you do not recognise promptly
- Shield the keypad when entering your PIN at an ATM or any payment terminal
- Only carry the payment cards you need and store others securely
Never:
- Share sensitive information during unexpected calls, texts or emails
- Transfer money unless you are certain who the recipient is
- Provide your security credentials, passwords, PINs or one-time passcodes to anyone
Do Not:
- Click links or open attachments from unknown sources
- Enter card details on websites that do not use a secure connection (https://)
- Use unsecure public Wi-Fi when accessing online banking applications
- Download software or allow remote access to your device unless you are certain who you are dealing with
Only:
- Buy from sellers you can independently verify
- Use trusted websites and apps when making payments or managing your accounts
Types of Frauds
Phishing
Fake emails or websites designed to trick you into sharing personal or banking information.
Vishing
Phone calls by fraudsters who try to obtain personal or financial information.
Smishing
Fraudulent text messages designed to trick you into clicking links or sharing information.
Spoofing
Phone calls, emails or text messages from fraudsters that appear to come from trusted sources.
Ransomware
Malicious software that lock your files or devices and demand payment to restore access.
Skimming
Criminal devices attached to ATMs or card machines to steal card details.
Identity Theft
Usage of personal information without permission to commit frauds.
Habib Bank AG Zurich
Habib House, 42 Moorgate
London, EC2R 6JJ, United Kingdom