Customers of a big UK bank have been given a 15-second warning

According to data released by Barclays, a fraudulent transaction occurs every 15 seconds in the UK. Now, customers are being warned to “stay one step ahead of the scammers” by the financial institution.

“Do everything you can to protect your computer, your identity, and your account details,” the website implores its users.

• Bank Fraud (+ How To Protect Against Financial Scams)

A host of “techniques” are being used

Barclays, who last month announced the closure of seven more branches, Barclays warns that criminals are using a wide variety of techniques to obtain your card information. 

Sophisticated phone and email scams are used to attempt to get sensitive information such as credit card numbers remotely.

That's why they keep an eye on your account for any unusual activity. Once the fraudsters get your information, they will use it to make transactions without your card being physically present. This may happen online, over the phone, or via the mail.

Beginning in 2019, financial institutions will be accountable for reimbursing anyone who fell for scams and sent money to con artists.

According to UK Finance, about £500 million was lost to app fraud in the previous year.

Advice: Do not give personal access information over the phone

Among the top banking best practices, customers should be wary about giving out any personal information over the phone, including account numbers, PINs, and passwords.

No one from Barclaycard, the police, or any other legitimate organisation will ever contact you to request this data.

In addition, people are being reminded that if they get a call from their bank, they can verify the caller's identity by dialling the number on the back of their card.

When asked to confirm account information, PINs, or passwords, reputable businesses like Barclaycard will never send an email claiming to be from the company.