31 October 2023 
Ashley Shelbrooke, HEPA and Project Specialist
Criminals are increasing their efforts to impersonate bank colleagues and defraud clients. Barclays have shared some useful guidance on how you can spot an imposter and help keep your organisation safe.
Be alert if you receive a phone call or text message about:
Fraudsters may trick you into downloading software to assist with ‘the issue’ by either directing you to a site or asking you to log in to a ‘chat function’. These websites and chat functions may look like your bank, but they’re actually malicious sites designed to facilitate fraud.
By downloading the software, you’re giving the fraudster remote access to your computer. Your screen might turn black, or you may even be asked to turn off your screen to assist with the process. This lets the fraudster make transactions without your knowledge.
You could be asked to enter your PIN or use your biometric device to complete the process. In reality, you're authorising the payments set up by the fraudster.
For more information on this, watch Barclays short video here.
Impersonation fraud is on the rise and causing devastating losses. But there are things you can do to protect your organisation:
A bank will never:
Barclays have also shared a useful checklist for internal controls. The handy single-page document can be downloaded here.
