Protect Yourself Against Fraud and Scams
At LHV Bank, your security is our top priority. Fraud and scams can affect anyone but staying informed and vigilant can help protect you and your money.
What are fraud and scams?
Fraud: This involves someone dishonestly deceiving you to gain something unlawfully, such as stealing your money or personal information.
Scams: These are specific schemes designed to trick you into handing over money, personal details, or other valuable information. Common examples include:
Phishing Emails and Messages: Fraudsters pretending to be from a trusted organization, such as a bank or delivery service, asking for your details.
Investment Scams: Offers of “too-good-to-be-true” returns on fake investments.
Romance Scams: Fraudsters pretending to form relationships to exploit victims financially.
Authorised Push Payment (APP) Fraud: Being tricked into transferring money to a fraudster's account.
Safe account scams: what you need to know
Fraudsters may contact you pretending to be from LHV Bank, HMRC, the police, or another trusted organization, claiming your account has been compromised. They may tell you to:
Move your money to a "safe account."
Share your PIN, authorization codes, or other security details.
Approve a transaction or payment you don’t recognize.
Remember:
LHV Bank, HMRC, and the police will never ask you to transfer money to a safe account.
We will never request your PIN, passwords, or authorization codes.
If you're ever unsure about a call, message, or email, stop and contact us directly using the number on our official website.
If you receive a suspicious call or message:
Hang up immediately.
Avoid clicking on any links or downloading attachments.
Report it to us at help@lhv.com and by contacting Action Fraud.
How to spot fraud and scams
Here are some common warning signs to look out for:
Unexpected Requests: Be cautious of unexpected emails, texts, or calls asking for personal details, passwords, or money.
Pressure to Act Quickly: Scammers often use urgency or threats to make you act without thinking.
Poor Grammar or Suspicious Details: Look for spelling mistakes, poor grammar, or unusual email addresses that don’t match the organization’s official details.
Unfamiliar Payment Requests: Be wary of someone asking for payment in unusual ways, such as cryptocurrency, gift cards, or wire transfers.
Contact from “Loved Ones” Needing Help: Scammers may impersonate family or friends, often claiming an emergency like being stranded abroad or needing bail money.
Unexpected Prizes or Offers: Be cautious of messages claiming you’ve won a prize or lottery you didn’t enter.
Requests for Remote Access: If someone asks you to install software or share access to your device, it could be an attempt to steal your information.
Too-Good-to-Be-True Deals: Offers with unrealistically high returns or discounts are often scams.
Impersonation of Authorities: Fraudsters may claim to be from your bank, HMRC, the police, or other trusted organizations, demanding money or access to your accounts.
If something doesn’t feel right, Stop, Challenge, and Protect, the core message of the National Take Five campaign.
Learn more about fraud prevention
Visit the Take Five campaign at takefive-stopfraud.org.uk for tips on staying vigilant.
Learn about fraud and cybercrime from Action Fraud at https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/campaigns
Together, we can fight fraud and keep your money safe.
How to report fraud or scams
If you suspect fraud or have concerns about a potential scam, let us know immediately. Reporting quickly helps us protect your account and others. You can report your concerns to LHV Bank via email at: help@lhv.com
Please include the following details when reporting:
A description of the incident, including dates, times and those involved.
Any emails, messages, or phone numbers involved.
Details of transactions, if applicable.
Details of any Police report that has been filed.
What happens next?
Once we receive your report, our dedicated team will:
Review the information provided.
Take necessary steps to secure your account and investigate further.
Provide advice and guidance on the next steps.