In recent months, a sophisticated phone scam has been targeting UK residents, with fraudsters posing as representatives from HSBC’s fraud department. The scam, which involves the phone number 0345 740 4403, has left many victims shaken and out of pocket. Reports from a website that tracks suspicious phone numbers reveal a disturbing pattern of deception, with scammers using convincing tactics to extract sensitive financial information.
How the Scam Works
The scam typically begins with a phone call from someone claiming to be from HSBC’s fraud team. The caller often has detailed information about the victim, including their name, address, and even the last few digits of their bank card. This level of detail makes the call seem legitimate, lulling victims into a false sense of security.
The fraudster then informs the victim of suspicious transactions on their account, often involving large sums of money or payments to unfamiliar companies. To “resolve” the issue, the scammer asks the victim to provide security codes, passwords, or even to transfer money to a “safe account.” In some cases, victims are directed to fake websites designed to capture their banking details.
One victim, who wished to remain anonymous, shared their experience: “The caller knew my name, address, and even the last four digits of my card. They said someone was trying to spend £1,000 on a betting site. It sounded so real, but thankfully I hung up and called HSBC directly. They confirmed it was a scam.”
A Growing Problem
The comments on the website reveal that this scam has been ongoing for over two years, with reports dating back to 2020. The number of incidents appears to have increased in recent months, with multiple victims reporting near-identical experiences.
One particularly alarming aspect of the scam is the level of coordination involved. In some cases, victims receive a fraudulent text message or email shortly before the phone call, adding to the illusion of legitimacy. For example, one victim reported receiving a fake NHS COVID pass text before being contacted by the scammer.
The scammers are also persistent. Many victims report receiving multiple calls from the same number, with the fraudsters becoming aggressive or abusive when challenged. One victim recounted: “When I told him I knew it was a scam, he threatened to come to my house. It was terrifying.”
How to Protect Yourself
HSBC has issued warnings about the scam, urging customers to remain vigilant. The bank has confirmed that it will never ask for sensitive information such as passwords, PINs, or security codes over the phone. If you receive a call from someone claiming to be from HSBC, follow these steps:
- Do not provide any personal or financial information.
- Hang up and call HSBC directly using the number on the back of your card or their official website.
- Report the incident to Action Fraud, the UK’s national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime.
Victims are also encouraged to report suspicious calls to their phone provider by texting the number 7726. This helps to flag the number as potentially fraudulent, protecting others from falling victim to the same scam.
A Call for Action
While many victims have managed to avoid financial loss by staying alert, others have not been so lucky. One victim reported losing £145 despite being on the phone with HSBC at the time of the scam.
The rise in sophisticated scams like this highlights the need for greater public awareness and stronger measures to combat fraud. As one victim put it: “These scammers are smooth and very persuasive. It’s scary how convincing they can be.”
If you or someone you know has been targeted by this scam, it’s important to act quickly. Contact your bank, report the incident, and spread the word to help others stay safe.
This report is based on comments from a website tracking suspicious phone numbers. Names and identifying details have been withheld to protect the privacy of individuals.
