"Move your money to a safe account"

· Scam Awareness

Navy Andy Computers graphic headed "Move your money to a safe account", with a phone showing 159 and four points: banks never ask you to move money, hang up even if it sounds genuine, call 159 or the number on your card, and take your time because scammers want panic.

Your bank will never ask you to move your money to keep it safe. Not ever.

It usually starts with a phone call. Someone says they're from your bank's fraud team, or sometimes the police. They sound calm and professional. They may know your name and who you bank with, and the number on your screen can even look like your bank's. They tell you your account is under attack and you need to move your money to a "safe account" today. That account belongs to the scammer.

If you get a call like this, hang up. Ending the call won't cost you a penny, however urgent they make it sound. Then call 159, which puts you through to your bank safely, or ring the number on the back of your card. Scammers can keep the line open after you hang up, so wait at least 15 minutes or use a different phone before you call. If you think you've already been caught out, tell your bank straight away.

If you're not sure, ask. I'd always rather you checked with me first than panicked.

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