Let's Talk Claims
UK bank transfer scam and APP fraud guidance

Bank transfer scams and APP fraud in the UK

Authorised Push Payment fraud happens when someone is tricked into authorising a bank transfer themselves.

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Let's Talk Claims is a trading style of Credit Claim Assist Ltd, a Claims Management Company authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FRN 832480).

You are not required to use a claims-management company or law-firm to pursue a claim. You can make the claim yourself for free to the bank from which you made the payments and if dissatisfied with the response to the Financial Ombudsman Service.

Why not take up our offer of a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your case before deciding whether you wish to pursue the claim yourself or seek our assistance?

UK bank transfer scam losses remain significant

Authorised Push Payment (APP) fraud continues to affect thousands of people across the UK every year.

2023 (full year)

£341 million

252,626 reported cases

2024 (full year)

£450.7 million

<186,000 reported cases

H1 2024

£213.7 million

97,344 reported cases

H1 2025

£257.5 million

>110,000 reported cases

What is APP fraud?

Bank transfer scams — also known as Authorised Push Payment (APP) fraud — happen when someone is tricked into authorising a bank transfer themselves. You believe you are sending money to a legitimate person or business. In reality, the funds go directly to a fraudster.

Illustration representing UK authorised push payment bank transfer fraud
APP fraud remains one of the most costly and widespread forms of payment fraud in the UK.

Unlike unauthorised card fraud, APP scams rely on social engineering — pressure, impersonation, fake invoices, or false investment opportunities designed to make the payment feel genuine and urgent.

The scale of the problem in the UK

  • 2024: victims lost £450.7 million across fewer than 186,000 reported cases
  • H1 2024: 97,344 reported bank transfer scams with £213.7 million lost
  • 2023: 252,626 reported cases with total losses of £341 million
  • H1 2025: around £257.5 million lost across more than 110,000 reported cases
  • Investment and cryptocurrency scams account for a large proportion of recent losses

Your rights and options

Although banks returned approximately 62% of stolen funds in recent reporting periods, many victims do not receive a refund automatically. You may need to submit a formal complaint, provide detailed evidence, and follow the bank's internal review process.

UK consumer preparing evidence for a bank transfer scam refund claim
Understanding how the claims process works can help you prepare a stronger complaint.
  • Report the scam to your bank as soon as possible
  • Gather screenshots, messages, account details, and payment references
  • Submit a formal complaint if initial reimbursement is refused
  • Escalate to the Financial Ombudsman Service if necessary
  • Seek specialist guidance if you are unsure how to proceed

You are not alone

Thousands of people across the UK are tricked into sending money every year. These scams can happen to anyone — regardless of age, background, or financial experience. What matters now is getting the right support.

Person reviewing a suspicious message on their phone at home
Scammers create urgency to stop you verifying details — but it is never too late to seek help.

Let's Talk Claims is here to guide you and help you understand your options — providing clear advice and reassurance at every stage of the process.

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