What to do if you've been scammed

1. Contact your bank immediately

Call the number on the back of your card. Most UK banks have 24/7 fraud lines. Authorised push payment (APP) reimbursement requires you to report quickly — don't wait until morning.

2. Freeze cards and change passwords

Freeze any compromised cards in your banking app. Change online banking passwords from a clean device, not the one you may have installed remote-access software on.

3. Report to Action Fraud

actionfraud.police.uk or 0300 123 2040. Get a crime reference number — your bank may need it for reimbursement.

4. Check your credit report

Sign up for free reports at Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion. Look for new accounts, credit applications, or address changes you didn't make.

5. Beware of recovery scams

Within weeks of being scammed, you'll likely be contacted by 'recovery agents' promising to get your money back for a fee. They are the same criminals or their network. Genuine recovery never requires upfront payment.

Frequently asked questions