Bank safely. Spot scams. Know what to do.
Free, plain-English advice to help you protect your money online and on your phone. Independent, kept up to date for the UK, and clear about who to contact when something goes wrong.
Think you've been scammed?
- Stop. Don't send any more money or share any codes.
- Call your bank on 159 or the number on the back of your card.
- Report it to Report Fraud on 0300 123 2040.
Full step-by-step help, including how to get your money back →
Five rules that stop most scams
- Your bank will never ask you to move money to a "safe account". Nor will the police or HMRC. Anyone who asks is a criminal.
- Never share a one-time passcode sent by your bank, not even with someone saying they're from your bank.
- Pressure is the red flag. Real organisations give you time. Scammers rush you, scare you or tell you to keep it secret.
- Don't trust the caller ID or the link. Numbers and sender names can be faked. Hang up and contact the company using a number you already trust.
- Never let a caller onto your device. No genuine bank or broadband company will ask you to install remote access apps.
Advice by topic
- Online bankingPasswords, two-step verification and safe habits on your computer.
- Mobile bankingKeep your banking app, phone and passcodes secure.
- Common scamsImpersonation, phishing, investment, romance and purchase scams explained.
- Protect your devicesUpdates, antivirus, public Wi-Fi and safely getting rid of old devices.
- Safety guidesPractical articles: prying eyes, protecting family, AI voice scams and more.
- Where to get helpTrusted organisations for lost money, stolen identity, debt, support and more.
- FAQsWill my bank refund me? What is 159? Quick answers to common questions.
Check before you pay
Our tool
Sort code checker: check which bank and branch a UK sort code belongs to before sending money.
Our tool
IBAN checker: check an international bank account number is valid before an overseas payment.
Is this company real? Anyone offering investments in the UK should be authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority.
Bank Safe Online, IBAN.com and SortCodes.co.uk are all run by GW SOLUTIONS Ltd.
A valid sort code or IBAN only proves the account exists. It doesn't prove the person asking for money is genuine. When you pay someone new, your bank may tell you the name doesn't match the account ("Confirmation of Payee"). Take that warning seriously.