Millions of Premium Bond holders across the UK have been put on high alert after National Savings and Investments issued an urgent warning about a sophisticated text messaging scam targeting their savings.
The government-backed savings provider has alerted its customers to be extremely vigilant after detecting a new wave of fraudulent messages designed to trick people into revealing sensitive personal information.
How the scam works
Fraudsters are sending convincing text messages that appear to come from NS&I, claiming there's an issue with the recipient's Premium Bonds account. The messages typically urge customers to click on a link to verify their details or resolve a supposed problem.
These malicious links lead to fake websites that mimic the genuine NS&I online platform, where victims are prompted to enter their security details, including login credentials and personal information.
Protecting your savings
NS&I emphasises that it will never send text messages asking customers to click on links or provide personal information. The organisation has outlined several key security measures:
- Never click on links in unsolicited text messages claiming to be from NS&I
- Always access your account through the official NS&I website or app
- Be suspicious of any message creating a sense of urgency about your account
- Verify any concerns by contacting NS&I directly through official channels
What to do if you're targeted
If you receive a suspicious message, forward it to 7726 to report it to your mobile provider. You should also report the scam to Action Fraud and notify NS&I directly through their official customer service channels.
Customers who believe they may have already fallen victim to the scam should contact NS&I immediately and monitor their accounts for any suspicious activity.
With over 21 million people in the UK holding Premium Bonds, this warning affects a significant portion of the population. Staying informed and vigilant is crucial to protecting your hard-earned savings from increasingly sophisticated financial scams.
