Protecting yourself against Fraud and Scams

In an increasingly digital world, fraudsters are becoming more sophisticated in the way they target individuals and business.  Therefore, it is very important to stay alert and know how to protect yourself from fraud and scams.

UBL UK are here to help you understand fraud risks and take the necessary steps to protect your personal and financial information.

Common Types of Fraud and Scams

1. Email and SMS (Phishing) Scams

Fraudsters may send fake emails or text messages (SMS), pretending to be from the Bank to trick you into revealing personal details such as your PIN, One Time Passcodes (OTP), or passwords.

2. Phone (Vishing) Scams

Scammers may call you pretending to be from the Bank to ask for sensitive account information or to transfer money urgently.

3. Card Fraud

Your card details can be stolen through skimming devices. This is a device that is disguised to look part of an ATM and can clone your card details. Card fraud can also be executed through online transactions or lost and stolen cards. Fraudsters may use your card information to make unauthorised purchases or withdraw cash.

4. Investment/Cryptocurrency Scams

Scammers offer fake but convincing investment opportunities by promising high returns with little or no risk, such as investing in Cryptocurrency. These are often fraudulent schemes designed to steal your money.

5. Identity Theft

Fraudsters can steal your personal details and use them to open accounts, apply for loans, or commit fraud in your name.

6. Authorised Push Payments (APP) Scams

Unlike other forms of fraud, where criminals secretly access accounts and steal money without the account holder’s awareness, APP scams involve fraudsters pressuring you to act quickly and convincing you to make payments by creating a sense of urgency or fear. These scams can take various forms, such as posing as a bank, utility provider, or even a family member in need of urgent help.

How to Protect yourself - (Tips & Tricks):

Be Cautious:
  •          Always be wary if you receive unexpected phone calls, texts, or emails asking for your personal or financial information.
  •          If you receive an investment opportunity that sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Always verify the legitimacy of the offer before taking any action.
  •           UBL UK will never pressurise you into making a payment or ask you to transfer money into a ‘safe account’. We may only contact you about payments you have made yourself for verifications purposes.
Verify the Source:
  •          If you are unsure as to whether a call, text message or email is genuine, contact the company directly using a phone number or website you trust – not the contact details provided in the message.
  •          To put your mind at ease, we have listed our official websites below. You can also find all of our contact detail on our websites to help you verify the authenticity of any communication you receive from the Bank.
  •           https://ublnetcore.azurewebsites.net/
  •           https://www.ubluknetremit.com
  •          https://digitalbanking.ubluk.com/
Do not share your private details with anyone:
  •          UBL UK will never contact you and ask for your PIN, OTP or passwords. You should also never share your passwords or pins with anyone.
  •           Do not give anyone access to your debit cards or online banking.

If you feel that you may have been a victim of fraud, or have any questions concerning fraud, please either contact us and we will be happy to discuss any of your concerns.

Additional support and resources:

If you have been a victim of fraud or need further guidance, we have provided links of some independent organisations that may be able to provide you with additional support:

  •           Action Fraud: The UK's national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime. You can report fraud and get guidance on next steps.
  •           Age UK: A charity for older people, which offers specific guidance to protect older people from fraud and scams.
  •           CIFAS:  A UK fraud prevention service offering ‘Protective Registration’ to those who have fallen victim to, or are at risk of, identity theft.
  •           Citizens Advice: An independent organisation specialising in confidential information and advice to assist people with legal, debt, consumer, housing and other problems.
  •          Crime Stoppers:  An independent charity where you can report crime anonymously, including fraud.
  •           Cyber Helpline:  Provides advice for those impacted by cybercrime including digital fraud.
  •           Experian: Access your credit report and score. You can also get online identity protection and alerts.
  •           Metropolitan Police Fraud:  If you suspect you have been a victim of fraud or have information about a potential fraudster, you can report this to the police.
  •           Stop! Think Fraud: A campaign backed by leading counter fraud experts who are uniting under one voice to provide consistent, clear and robust anti-fraud advice to the public.
  •           Victim Support: Provides emotional and practical support to those affected by fraud.

Please note that by clicking on the links above, you will be directed to external websites. These websites are operated by third parties and are not affiliated with UBL UK. While we provide these links for your convenience and as additional resources, UBL UK is not responsible for the accuracy of the information provided on these sites or for any actions taken based on that information.

Some organisations may charge a fee for their services and you should check any applicable charges ahead of taking up any services with them.