Bank transfer fraud
Paid someone by bank transfer and it was a scam?
Whether it was a fake invoice, an online purchase, or a payment you were talked into, contacting your bank quickly matters.
The basics
What is bank transfer fraud?
Bank transfer fraud covers payments you authorised but were tricked into making. Common examples are fake invoices with changed bank details, items bought online that never arrive, and payments to fake landlords, tradespeople, or sellers.
Because you made the payment yourself, it can feel like there's nothing to be done, but banks can sometimes act if they're told quickly.
It's not your fault. These scams are run by professionals.
Telling someone is the first step. Our support team will listen and explain what can realistically be done.
Contact supportHow it usually happens
The pattern most of these scams follow.
- 01
A believable reason
An invoice, a purchase, a deposit, or a payment request that looks routine.
- 02
Changed details
Bank details are swapped, often by a hacked email account or fake website.
- 03
You pay
The transfer goes through to an account the fraudster controls.
- 04
Nothing arrives
The goods, service, or confirmation never come, and the contact stops replying.
Warning signs
How to spot it.
- !A supplier or contact saying their bank details have changed
- !Prices far below what you'd normally pay
- !Being asked to pay by bank transfer instead of a protected method
- !Pressure to pay before you can view or receive something
- !Email addresses or websites that are slightly different from usual
- !Sellers who won't meet, call, or provide proof
What to do now
Steps to take straight away.
- 1Stop sending money, even if you're told one more payment will release your funds.
- 2Contact your bank or card provider straight away and tell them you've been scammed.
- 3Keep everything: messages, emails, receipts, wallet addresses, website links, and screenshots.
- 4Report it to the police or your national fraud reporting service and note the reference number.
- 5Change passwords and turn on two-step verification if you shared any login details.
How we can help with your case.
- We listen to what happened and review your payments and records
- We explain your options honestly, including what may not be possible
- If you go ahead, your secure dashboard shows every update on your case
Talk to our support team about what happened.
Your message goes straight to our team with the topic already filled in.
We'll never ask for your passwords or verification codes.
Other types of scam