Some scammers will send text messages saying there’s been fraudulent activity on your bank account and prompt you to call a number or visit a website to update your personal information. The messages even might appear in a genuine chain of text messages you've received from the organisation before.
How to protect yourself
Smishing texts can be difficult to spot, especially if it’s someone who would normally contact you by text. Look out for any signs that it might be a scam such as spelling mistakes, or the text might address you as 'Sir' or 'Madam'.
Real messages from companies will usually address you by your full name. You can also look at the phone number it’s been sent from. First, it won’t be the same as the one on your bank card. Second, it might be sent from an overseas number. You could also do a search for it online. If it’s a known fake number there’ll be information on the internet.
What to do
Don’t click or select any links or copy and paste anything from the message itself. Call the company on a number you trust or visit their website by typing their web address directly into your browser. If you’re unsure about a text message that appears to be from us, call us or report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or at actionfraud.police.uk.