One in five tricked into sharing personal information with scammers

One in five people (15%) have provided personal information to someone before realising they were not genuine, according to new research from Nationwide.

Among them is actress and broadcaster Lisa Riley MBE, who was tricked into providing personal information through a convincing scam that appeared completely legitimate.

The research also found consumers are exposed to potential scams almost daily, receiving suspicious phone calls more than three times a week on average and suspicious text messages around twice a week.

Nearly one in five (19%) would be likely to call back an unknown number, potentially putting themselves at risk. The findings reveal how criminals exploit personal information, familiar details and technology to make their approaches appear genuine.

When asked what would make them trust an unexpected caller claiming to be from their banking provider:

• 20% said seeing their banking provider’s name displayed on their phone
• 19% said the caller knowing some recent account activity
• 14% said the caller knowing their full name
• 13% said the caller knew their date of birth
• 12% said the number appeared genuine
• 10% said the caller sounding professional

During the past 12 months, more than a quarter (26%) of consumers received a text message claiming to be from their banking provider, while 25% received an email and 22% received a phone call.

With Nationwide data showing the average impersonation loss is nearly £2,200, consumers are being reminded to remain vigilant when receiving unexpected contact.

Only 26 per cent sometimes or rarely check a number before responding to a text or call. A further seven per cent never check. Yet 14 per cent are not confident they know how to spot a scammer impersonating their bank.

Annya Burskys, Head of Fraud Operations at Nationwide, said “Scammers are increasingly sophisticated at making unexpected calls, texts and emails appear genuine. They may disguise a call as coming from a trusted organisation, use personal details to gain your trust or pressure you to act quickly.

“Many scams are connected. Criminals may first obtain information about you through a fraudulent website, phishing email or text message. They can then use those details to make future impersonation scams appear much more convincing.

“They may also tell you what to say if your banking provider questions a payment, claiming it will speed things up. In reality, the more your banking provider knows, the better it can support and protect you.”