Scam alert: Weatherbys Fraud Team impersonation calls

Weatherbys Fraud Team impersonation scam

We are aware that a small number of our clients have been contacted by fraudsters pretending to be from the Weatherbys Fraud Team.

These fraudsters are using sophisticated tactics to make their calls appear legitimate, including spoofing the Weatherbys phone number so it looks like the call is coming directly from us. They are informing clients of alleged fraudulent activity on their accounts and offering to “reverse” or “verify” these fraudulent transactions by requesting payment authentication data, such as one-time passcodes.

How the fraud works

The fraudsters may already have access to some of your personal information, such as your debit card details. This information is often obtained through compromises elsewhere, not within Weatherbys, and is then used to make their calls appear more credible.

During the call, they send a one-time passcode (OTP) to your registered mobile number. Since this OTP is sent by Weatherbys as part of our security processes, it appears within your genuine Weatherbys message chain. However, the fraudsters will ask you to share the OTP with them, claiming it is needed to reverse or verify fraudulent transactions. In reality, the OTP is used to authorise fraudulent transactions.

How to spot a scam call

We will never:

  • Call you without prior arrangement through your private banking team or Relationship Manager.
  • Ask you to share a one-time passcode (sent via text or email).
  • Ask you to share your online banking password.
  • Ask you to download anything not affiliated with Weatherbys, or follow any links other than our website.
  • Pressure you into acting quickly.

What to do if you receive an unexpected call

To stay safe, we advise you to:

  • Politely decline any unexpected calls, even if the caller claims to be from Weatherbys.
  • Contact your private banking team or Relationship Manager directly using a trusted number – ideally from a different phone, if possible, to ensure the line is secure.

If you suspect that you have been targeted by fraudsters, or if you believe you may have been the victim of a scam, please block your card immediately using the Weatherbys Card App, or call us on +44 (0) 1933 543 600 and report it to Action Fraud on +44 (0) 300 123 2040.

Protecting yourself from fraud

Fraudsters rely on creating fear and urgency, combined with access to limited personal information. Always remember that we will never ask you to share sensitive information like OTPs or passwords under any circumstances. Remaining vigilant and following the steps above will help keep your accounts and information secure.

Please take a moment to listen in on a real-life bank impersonation recorded by one of our clients earlier this year: https://vimeo.com/944796470.