Authorised push payment (APP) fraud happens when you are tricked by a criminal into sending money by bank payment to an account that they control and which you do not.
Rules have been set by the Payment Systems Regulator (PSR), the body that regulates payment systems in the UK – and apply to payments made on, or after 7 October 2024.
Every year thousands of people and businesses are victims of APP fraud. Common types of APP fraud include:
- Purchase fraud – where criminals pretend to sell things or services that do not exist or are not provided.
- Impersonation fraud – where criminals pretend to be from a bank, the police, or another trusted organisation to steal money.
- Investment fraud, where you are convinced to invest in a fake investment.
- Romance fraud, when criminals use fake dating profiles to start a relationship and ask for money.
- Invoice fraud, where fraudsters send false invoices.
There are separate rules for reimbursing unauthorised fraud, including credit and debit card fraud, and you should seek advice in this instance.
Contact your bank or building society immediately if you spot any transactions that you do not recognise or where you believe you have been a victim of APP fraud to enquire about being reimbursed via the APP Reimbursement Rules.
For more information please use the specific link below:
Authorised Push Payment Fraud Reimbursement | UK Finance
UK Finance website: www.ukfinance.org.uk
If you have been scammed or duped into contracting with a business or a trader and parted with money, and require advice, please report to Citizens Advice Consumer Advice Line on 0808 223 1133 or go to the following website to report online:
https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/consumer/get-more-help/if-you-need-more-help-about-a-consumer-issue/