NatWest customers have been warned about a new phishing email scam designed to steal your money.
The dodgy email claims the mobile linked to your online account has been changed, and says a one-time passcode has been sent to your old number.
It goes on to ask you to click on a link to cancel the request.
If you click on this link, it takes you to a webpage that looks just like the NatWest online banking site.
However, the URL contains a string of random words rather than a genuine NatWest domain.
Don’t enter any of your personal details on this webpage, as scammers will then use them to access your bank account.
The phishing email was first reported by Which? who pointed out a few tell-tale signs that immediately showed it wasn’t from NatWest.
The email doesn’t come from an official NatWest email account, ending @natwest.com. Instead, it comes from an address ending @natwestsecure.com.
The email also begins “Dear Customer” rather than addressing you by name.
The fake website also contains errors, including the wording “Online bankingservices”.
A genuine email from NatWest will always contain at least one identifiable piece of information, such as your name or partial postcode.
A NatWest Spokesperson said: “Criminals are using phishing emails to trick customers into giving away their bank details or downloading malicious software.
“A genuine email from NatWest will always contain at least one identifiable piece of information, such as your name or partial postcode.
“If unsure about an email do not click on any links, do not enter your bank details and do not install any applications or software to your device. If you have done so contact your bank immediately.”
What to do if you think you’ve been scammed
If you think a scammer has got hold of your bank details, contact your bank straight away.
You can call the 159 hotline, which will connect you to your bank.
Passwords that have been leaked or compromised should be changed immediately.
Make sure you report scams and fraud to Action Fraud by calling 0300 123 2040, or through the Action Fraud website.
If you're in Scotland, report a scam through Advice Direct Scotland on 0808 164 6000 or on the Advice Direct Scotland website.
You can also report scams to Police Scotland on 101.
For scam emails, forward them to report@phishing.gov.uk, and for scam text messages, forward them to 7726 for free.
If you suspect a scammer is calling you, hang up immediately and search for the contact details online of the place you're supposedly being called from.
Never call back the number provided by the caller.
