Safe account scam
In this scam, criminals pretend your account is under threat and pressure you to move money into a so-called “safe account” they control. Real banks do not ask you to move money this way.
Example
“Your account is compromised. To protect your funds, transfer them immediately to this safe account now.”
5 red flags
- Urgent demand to move money immediately.
- Claims that your account is unsafe unless you transfer now.
- Pressure to stay on the call while transferring funds.
- Requests to use a new account you cannot verify independently.
- Warnings not to speak to anyone else while acting.
What to do now
- Do not transfer money based on a call, text, or message instruction.
- Stop the conversation and contact your bank using official contact details only.
- If money was sent, call your bank immediately and ask for urgent fraud support.
- Check recent account activity and remove unknown payees.
- Run a FraudSentry check and save the report for follow-up.
Official UK reporting links
FraudSentry is independent and is not affiliated with or endorsed by these organisations.
- Report suspicious text messages by forwarding them to 7726
- Report fraud or phishing to Action Fraud
- Report suspicious emails and websites on GOV.UK
Start free check
Check a suspicious message or call script before you respond.
Related guides
FraudSentry helps people check, review, and take safer next steps. It does not guarantee detection, prevention, or recovery. Always verify through official channels.