In an APP scam, you’re tricked into sending money yourself. The good news is that many victims are now entitled to a refund, if they act quickly.
Summary
- An authorised push payment scam tricks you into sending a bank transfer to a fraudster.
- Since 7 October 2024, most victims of APP scams via Faster Payments or CHAPS can be reimbursed, up to £85,000 per claim.
- Your bank may apply an excess of up to £100, and claims generally need to be made within 13 months of the last payment.
- Contact your bank immediately if you think you’ve been scammed; acting fast matters.
An authorised push payment (APP) scam happens when a criminal persuades you to send money by bank transfer. Because you authorise the payment yourself, these scams used to leave many victims without a refund. Rules introduced on 7 October 2024 changed that for most bank transfers in the UK.
Common scam tactics
| Scam type | What happens |
|---|---|
| Impersonation | Someone pretends to be your bank, the police or HMRC and asks you to move money |
| Purchase scams | You pay for goods advertised online that never arrive |
| Investment scams | You’re promised high returns from a fake investment |
| Romance scams | Someone builds a relationship online, then asks for money |
| Invoice scams | You receive fake bank details for a genuine-looking bill |
Take care
Your bank will never ask you to move money to a “safe account”. If anyone does, it’s a scam, however convincing they sound.
Your right to a refund
Under the reimbursement rules that began on 7 October 2024:
- Most victims who sent money by Faster Payments or CHAPS from a UK account are covered.
- Reimbursement is available up to £85,000 per claim.
- Your bank may apply an excess of up to £100.
- Claims generally need to be made within 13 months of the final payment to the scammer.
- Firms can refuse in limited cases, such as gross negligence or when the customer is involved in the fraud.
Card payments, cash and cheques aren’t covered by these rules, though other protections may apply.
What to do if you’ve been scammed
- Contact your bank straight away, using the number on your card or in your banking app.
- Report the fraud to Action Fraud if you’re in England, Wales or Northern Ireland, or to Police Scotland.
- Keep evidence: messages, emails, payment details and screenshots.
- Be alert to recovery scams, where criminals contact victims offering to get their money back for a fee.
Top tip
If you get a suspicious call claiming to be from your bank, hang up and dial 159. It connects you securely to many UK banks.
Habits that protect you
- Pause before any payment someone is pressuring you to make.
- Confirm new bank details for bills by calling a number you already trust.
- Check investment firms on the FCA’s Financial Services Register and its warning list.
- Be wary of unexpected contact through open banking requests or apps you don’t recognise.
The bottom line
Pressure and urgency are the classic signs of an APP scam. If you’ve been tricked into sending a bank transfer, contact your bank immediately: many victims are now entitled to reimbursement. For card security, see our guide to contactless and mobile wallet security.
Questions readers ask
Will my bank refund me if I’ve been scammed?
If you were tricked into sending a Faster Payment or CHAPS transfer from a UK account, you may be entitled to reimbursement under the rules that began on 7 October 2024, subject to limits and exceptions.
Are card payments covered by these rules?
No. These rules cover bank transfers. Card payments have different protections, such as chargeback, so contact your card provider.
What is the 159 number?
159 is a phone service that connects you securely to your bank if you receive a suspicious call. Hang up on the caller first, then dial 159 from your phone.
Can a refund be refused?
Yes, in some cases, such as when a firm can show you acted with gross negligence, or if you were involved in the fraud. Vulnerable customers have extra protection.
This guide is general information, not financial advice. Rules, rates and allowances can change, so check the latest details with the provider, GOV.UK or the Financial Conduct Authority before making decisions. For advice on your own circumstances, speak to an FCA-authorised financial adviser.