New features to keep you secure

When you add a new payee using Banking 365 we’ll ask you why you’re making this payment. We’ll then display a warning about different types of frauds associated with that payment – for that reason it’s really important you chose the right option.

You’ll also be given the option to cancel setting up the new payee – giving you chance to go and research the payee and check that you’re sending your money to the right person.

Why have you introduced these warnings?

Customers can fall victim to fraud and scams. Giving you information can help you make an informed decision about these scams and gives you time to fully research new payments you may want to make, and possibly avoid making a large payment that you’re not entirely sure about.

Some fraud watch-outs

• Bank of Ireland, Police or any legitimate organisation will never call and ask you to move funds to a “safe” account – if you’ve been contacted, no matter how convincing the caller seems, as soon as they ask you to move funds it’s a scam.
• Investments such as crypto-currencies may look attractive, especially if you’re not familiar with how they work. If someone wants to act as your “account manager” or you’re asked to download a screen-sharing programme, this will be a fraud – do not proceed
• You may be contacted by SMS or WhatsApp (or similar) by a friend or family member asking you to send money to pay an urgent bill – never send money without first speaking to your friend – no matter how convincing the story

Find out more about security and fraud here.

• What if l’ve been told to choose an answer / told to ignore the warning?
  It’s almost certain the person is trying to scam you and you should not make the payment.
  
• Where can I get advice on how to avoid fraud and scams?
  First start with the Security & Fraud section of our website – it’s regularly updated.

  There is also the Take Five website – this is a National campaign offering straight-forward advice helping prevent email, phone and online fraud.
  

• How can l check a firm l want to deal with is genuine?
  Check the firms website – does it look legitimate and is there an address and phone number listed? When you ring that number can you speak to the person you were dealing with?

  If it’s an investment, is the firm registered with the FCA – if not, it’s either not a UK registered firm or not authorised to carry out investment business and probably should be avoided.

  The old adage – if it’s too good to be true, it probably is – always rings true!
  

• How can l protect myself when buying online?
  When purchasing something online:

  • Is the price realistic?
  • Never pay off-platform – using PayPal or debit / credit card offers you more protection
  • If purchasing a large item, can you pay a small holding deposit and then pay balance on collection? If not, why not?
  • Fraudsters can use images of cars or holiday accommodation in their advert. Put those images into a reverse image look up (any search engine will explain how to do this). If you find the image has been used by other sellers, beware it could be a scam.