Banks and verification

Quartz · 29 May 2020 at 12:28

When you call your bank they take great pains to verify that you are really you. But how does your bank verify that it is really them when they call you?

I currently bank with RBS and they don't seem to have anything. I've already fired off a snottogram but I'd like some ideas for a more constructive follow-up.

Siliconslave · 29 May 2020 at 12:36

they tend to say you can call them back if your worried its not them.

On Holiday · 29 May 2020 at 12:36

I've only ever had them call me to try arrange appointments to see me which ultimately turns into a "what more products can we sell you" from TSB which ultimately led to me leaving them in favour of Nationwide.

I'd just call them back on the branch number advertised on their website before delving into any personal information that can be used for social engineering.
Telephone numbers can be spoofed so never rely on that as a trustworthy indicator.

Ninco! · 29 May 2020 at 18:05

Agree with the advice mentioned, if I receive an unexpected call purporting to be from my bank, fraud alert or what not - simply decline/hang up and call them back.

Don't just call the number appearing on your phone display as Woody mentions, use an alternative number (back of card or from their website).

Scam · 29 May 2020 at 18:34

There's no other way than to politely tell them you'll call back. Do so on a number you know is theirs. Even if the person on the other end of the phone knew everything about me, my current balance etc. I'd still not do anything. Always call them back.