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Fraud guide

Tips for shopping safer

Shopping safely

We've made it simpler to shop online safely. Below you will find some tips to help keep you safe.

Things to look out for when shopping

Don’t get caught out buying online

We all love a bargain but be vigilant when buying from social media and online marketplaces. Watch out for fake ads promising you amazing discounts.  Always do your research on the seller and if a deal seems too good to be true it probably is and could be a scam.  Check the contact details on the website, if there is no address given or phone number, then the site may not be genuine.

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Use secure websites

Fake ads online can sometimes lead you to webpages used to steal your card details. Make sure the web address in your browser begins with 'https://'.  The 's' at the end indicates a secure connection.  Keep an eye out for spelling errors or strange characters in the web address - this can sometimes mean a fake site.  However, remember a secure page does not mean the retailer is reputable.

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Always use a safe way to pay

Pay with your debit or credit card – it’s a safer way to pay and gives you more protection.  If a seller tells you they can’t accept a card payment and asks you to send them money directly don’t do it, it could be a scam.  Fraudsters often concoct stories to try to persuade you to transfer your money to a bank account instead of paying by another method – be suspicious of anyone asking you to do this.

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Don’t give anyone your full details

Scammers are really convincing.  If anyone, even someone claiming to be from the bank, Police or another organisation you trust gets in touch and asks for information such as login details, passcodes, card reader codes, remote access to your device or tells you to transfer money from your account – don’t do it, it’s a scam.

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Don’t open unexpected emails from anyone you don’t know

Fake emails and texts are doing the rounds - Be careful of out of the blue or suspicious emails, texts or phone calls that appear to be from a genuine organisation or company.  Fraudsters use these fake emails as a way to steal your personal information.  If in any doubt, don't click on any links or download files.

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Get in touch with us if you’re ever unsure something is genuine

Call us using the number from the back of your card or from our website

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Think you have been caught out?

It can happen to anyone, and it's better to be safe than sorry. We're here to help, whether you see a transaction you don't recognise, or accidently gave personal details to someone you don't trust.