Fraud Protection

Fraud is a criminal act to deceive you and take your cash – it's a transaction that you didn't know about or authorise. For example, fraudsters may use your details to open accounts under your name or your business.

A scam is where you’re tricked into making or authorising a payment to a criminal’s account. Scammers impersonate banks and official organisations using emails, phone calls and texts that look and sound genuine.

Maintaining vigilance during the festive period

Whilst many businesses wind down as the end of the year approaches, fraudsters won’t be taking a break. During periods where staff levels are reduced, cybercriminals will exploit any weaknesses in your security and payment processes to target your organisation. 

How to avoid falling victim to fraud this festive season:

Make a list

Before shutting down or handing over any duties during the holidays, put robust security measures in place to protect your business from cyber attacks including data breaches. Visit our network attacks, malware and ransomware page for more information.

Check it twice

Validate any new payment requests or change in payee details by calling the requestor using a trusted number held on file, and not one provided within the email or instruction.

Remember that Barclays will never:

• Ask you to make payments or move money to a ‘safe account’
• Call and ask you to provide or enter your PIN or use your biometric device, for any reason
• Take control of your computer or call you unexpectedly and direct you to a website.

Sharing best practice

Our fraud and scam toolkit outlines risks your business might face over the festive period and what you can do to mitigate them. Make sure everyone working up to and over the festive period knows how to keep your organisation safe.