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APP Scam Code

What is an APP scam?

Every year thousands of people are victims of authorised push payment (APP) scams. An APP scam is when you’re tricked into paying money to someone who isn’t genuine or for a different purpose from what you meant.  Because it seems convincing, it’s easy to get caught out.

From 7th October 2024, you’re protected by new rules from the Payment Systems Regulator. They make sure financial companies like us refund customers who are victims of APP scams.

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The Consumer Standard of Caution

Under the new rules, you’re expected to take certain steps before and after making a payment.  You must:

  • Follow any specific warnings given by us, the police or another law enforcement agency that you’re at risk of being a victim of a scam.
  • Tell us promptly if you think you’ve been a victim of a scam.
  • Share any information we reasonably ask you for to help with your claim.
  • Report the scam to the police or allow us to report it on your behalf. 

The APP Scam Code

What is it?

The APP Scam Code applies to in scope payments that are made up to and including 6th October 2024. You can read more about the APP Scam Code here (PDF, 2mb)

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How does it protect you?

Under the APP Scam Code you’re protected and will be fully reimbursed if you fall victim to an APP scam, as long as you did everything expected of you under the APP Scam Code.

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What is and is not covered by the APP Scam Code?

The APP Scam Code covers:

  • All personal customers.
  • Charities with an annual income of less than £1 million.
  • Micro-enterprises – an enterprise which employs fewer than 10 people and whose annual turnover and annual balance sheet total does not exceed EUR 2 million.

The APP Scam Code does not cover:

  • Any payments completed before the APP Scam Code came into force on 28th May 2019.
  • Where you have a genuine disagreement with the person or company you’re paying. For example, if you’ve paid a retailer or business but you’re not satisfied with the product or service you received.   
  • International payments. The APP Scam Code applies to UK customers and UK Sterling payments only.

Helping you stay safe and spot scams

Safer shopping

Online shopping can mean more opportunity for fraudsters. Follow our useful tips to keep you safe.

Card payment help

All the support you need on the most common issues when making a card payment.

Our fraud guides

Guidance on ways fraudsters work and how to stop becoming a victim of fraud.

Mobile security

We're doing whatever we can to keep our mobile app as safe as can be. There's also a number of ways you can keep your phone safe. 

Not happy with the outcome of your claim?

We always try to give you the best possible service, but sometimes we don't get it right. If you let us know, we've then got the chance to put it right and help prevent the same mistakes in the future.