Common points of compromise

Fraudsters use many different avenues to capture your personal and financial details, some of which may not be immediately apparent. Here are some common points of compromise to be aware of, along with tips on how to protect yourself.

Delivery scams

Scammers often impersonate reputable delivery services such as Royal Mail, Evri, or DPD to trick you into divulging personal information or making payments for fake parcels. Be cautious of unexpected delivery notifications, especially if you have not ordered anything recently. Always verify the authenticity of the communication before taking any action.

 

Social media ads

Advertisements on social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok may lead to fake websites or phishing pages designed to steal your personal and financial details. Exercise caution when clicking on ads, especially those offering unrealistic deals or promotions. Stick to reputable websites and retailers when making online purchases.

 

Public Wi-Fi

Public Wi-Fi networks pose a significant security risk as they can be easily compromised by cybercriminals. Avoid accessing sensitive information, such as online banking or shopping, while connected to public Wi-Fi. Instead, use a virtual private network (VPN) to disguise your IP address when you use the internet, making its location invisible to everyone. Alternatively, you could use your mobile data to ensure secure browsing.

Protect yourself

Be sceptical

Always approach unsolicited messages, emails, or ads with scepticism. It is crucial to question their legitimacy, especially if they are requesting personal or financial details.

 

Verify websites

Before entering any sensitive information online, ensure that the website is secure by checking for HTTPS encryption and looking out for any misspellings or unusual domain names.

 

Secure devices

Keep your devices and software up to date with the latest security patches and antivirus software to prevent malware infections and other cyber threats.

One Time Passcode (OTP) fraud awareness

One Time passcode (OTP) fraud continues to pose a significant threat in today’s digital world. Fraudsters may attempt to deceive you into disclosing your OTP through various means, including impersonating bank representatives, or creating fake emergencies. Remember, OTPs are for your eyes only and should never be shared with anyone, including Weatherbys staff.

We encourage you to revisit the video we sent to you by email which was created using a real life OTP fraud scenario provided by one of our clients. This valuable resource demonstrates the importance of safeguarding your OTP and highlights the red flags to look out for during these fraudulent calls.

If you need any help or guidance with what we have outlined, please speak to your private banking team or Relationship Manager. You can also contact the Private Bank on +44 (0) 1933 543 600 or the Racing Bank on +44 (0) 1933 543 543.