NatWest scam texts, emails and calls: how to spot them and report fraud
Quick answer
Scammers pretend to be NatWest by text, email and phone. NatWest says it will never ask for your full PIN, full password or card reader codes. Don't click or call back. Forward suspect emails to phishing@natwest.com and texts to 88355.
- Comes by
- Text, Email, Phone call
- Pretends to be
- NatWest
- Last updated
How it works
Scammers copy NatWest's name, logo and wording. They send an email or text about a blocked account, a payment you didn't make or a security check, with a link to a copy of the NatWest login page. Press coverage of one email scam describes a generic "Dear Customer" greeting and a fake login page on an address built from unrelated words.
By phone, the caller says they're from the bank's fraud team and wants you to "move your money to a safe account" or read out a code. Caller ID can be faked, so the number can look right.
What they're after: your online banking login, card details, the codes that approve payments, or a transfer you make yourself. NatWest is being impersonated, not running the scam.
Red flags
- A text or email about a blocked account or unknown payment with a link to log in
- A request for your full PIN, full password or card reader codes
- A caller who says your money is at risk and asks you to move it
- Pressure to act immediately or keep the call secret
- A generic greeting such as "Dear Customer"
- A sender address or web address that is close to, but not, NatWest's
Example message
NatWest: we've blocked a payment of [amount] from your account. If this wasn't you, secure your account now at [link] or call [phone number].
What to do
- 1
Don't click, call back or reply
Don't use the link or number in the message. Log in through the NatWest app or by typing the address yourself, or call the number on the back of your card.
- 2
Forward it to NatWest
NatWest's report-fraud page says to send suspicious emails to its phishing mailbox and suspicious texts to 88355. Those are automated services, so don't add questions or personal details.
- 3
If you clicked or typed in details, call your bank
Phone NatWest on the number on your card straight away. Change your online banking password and any other account that uses it.
- 4
If you've sent money, act fast
Tell the bank the moment you realise. NatWest's business site describes the 159 number, from Stop Scams UK, which connects you to your bank if you suspect a scam. Check its current status first.
- 5
Keep the evidence
Keep the text, email, screenshots and call times.
Report it
Check if your details are exposed with Serus
Scammers find your number and address on data brokers and people-search sites. Serus removes them.
Why you got it
Scammers don't need to know which bank you use. They send bulk texts and emails, and the ones with your name and number on them are far more believable. Those details come from people-search sites, data brokers and breaches. Serus finds where your phone number, address and email are listed and removes them, and alerts you when your details show up in a breach, so fewer scammers can reach you.
Frequently asked
Will NatWest ever ask for my PIN or password?
NatWest says it will never ask for your full PIN, full password or card reader codes by text, email or phone.
The call came from NatWest's real number. Is it safe?
Not necessarily. Numbers can be spoofed. Hang up and call the number on the back of your card.
How do I report a NatWest scam text?
Forward it to 88355, as NatWest's report-fraud page says. Emails go to its phishing mailbox.
What is 159?
A number run by Stop Scams UK and the Global Cyber Alliance that connects you to your bank. NatWest's article called it a pilot, so check it is live for your bank.
Sources
Something wrong or out of date? Tell us and we'll re-check it.
