Fraudulent Usage

Fraudsters can use your data to commit fraud. For example, they may purchase goods in your name or withdraw funds from your account. If you think your card has been used without your consent, you should contact your card company immediately and inform staff at the Action Fraud helpline on 0300 123 2040 (www.actionfraud.police.uk). Remember there is a black market for your details so always be vigilant when using your card.

 

NEVER TRUST AN EMAIL – This is one of the most common scams used by fraudsters. If the email includes a link you need to follow it to read a message. If the email includes a link you need to click on to read a message then it may be hiding its true intention and you may be agreeing to the fraudster having access to your entire computer system, as such it is highly dangerous to click on any such links as it may allow fraudsters access to your personal, and banking details.

 

NEVER PANIC – You may be cold-called and asked for personal details such as your name or address. Common trigger words such as “suspicious”, “fraud” or “data breach” are used to solicit a knee-jerk response and scare you into giving them the information they want. Card companies will NEVER ask you for your PIN or account details over the phone. If you are unsure simply say that you will go to the branch. Remember these cheats can be very persuasive.

 

Recommended ways to avoid becoming a victim of credit card fraud:

• Keep your card safe, do not leave it in plain view, and try not to let your card out of your sight when making a transaction;
• We recommend that you use ATMs within a branch of a bank or building society, criminals are far less likely to try and install card reading equipment in these areas;

• Be wary of anyone paying attention to you or your card, especially when using an ATM – if in doubt, walk away;
• If the card does not work and the seller offers to clean it, politely decline and clean it yourself;
• Check your credit card statements carefully, be on the lookout for any “odd” purchases;
• Make sure you carefully destroy any old statements or cards by ideally shredding or burning them, if you cannot do this then bank staff will happily do this for you; and
• NEVER write down your PIN. If you think it has been compromised then you can change it at the bank's ATM terminal or ask a member of their staff to order you a new one.

 

What can the bank do to help?

The bank will investigate the matter, if they agree that fraud has occurred then they will generally refund the money to you. To prevent fraudulent claims for refunds the bank may ask you to answer some questions and fill out a form confirming what has happened. Remember that deliberately making a false claim when you have knowingly purchased the items is fraud and your bank could report any false claims to the police.

 

How we can help

Reputable lenders are usually extremely fair at reimbursing victims of fraud, however, if you do encounter any issues then Lestons have specialist staff to liaise with your bank to try and remedy the situation. To gain our assistance you need to open a case, this is done by simply clicking on the link at the top of the page, you will then need to deposit a sum equal to one hour’s usage, upon receipt of these funds you will be assigned your personal caseworker who will telephone you to discuss the matter and make suggestions on how to proceed. Please note your caseworker is not legally trained and can only give generic advice, their role is to prepare your details for handling by our trainee and qualified solicitors and to act as your point of contact, they will also issue you with your Password and PIN, these will be needed to log onto your client dashboard. From your dashboard you will be able to manage and view every aspect of your case, upload documents, images, files etc.