NatWest has issued a warning to thousands of customers aged 18 to 45, identifying the top scams to look out for this summer as part of its Scam Safe Summer campaign. The campaign highlights how fraudsters are adapting their tactics to seasonal trends, with young adults particularly at risk.
Purchase Scams Hit Young Adults Hardest
According to NatWest, young adults aged 18 to 45 are most likely to fall victim to purchase scams, accounting for over half (57%) of losses in this category. These scams often involve fake concert tickets, fraudulent driving lessons, and other seasonal purchases.
Investment scams remain the biggest financial threat overall, accounting for nearly half (48%) of all money lost to fraud. Catherine van Weenan, London and South East Regional Board Chair at NatWest, which has branches in Birmingham, said: “Scams aren’t just becoming more sophisticated, they’re becoming more localised. From fake concert tickets to fraudulent driving lessons, criminals are targeting the things people are doing every day across London.”
Bank's Community Workshops
As part of the campaign, NatWest is bringing its Financial Foundations workshops directly to communities, providing practical skills to help people spot scams before money is lost. Van Weenan added: “As a bank, we play a critical role in educating and empowering our customers with the confidence to spot scams before the money is gone. That’s why we’re bringing our Financial Foundations workshops directly to communities across the capital giving people practical, real life skills they can use immediately.”
Government's Fraud Strategy
Labour Party peer Lord Hanson, Minister for Fraud, commented: “Fraudsters will try to exploit our excitement for summer events. Whether it’s the World Cup, a big gig or a deserved holiday, these criminals will try to make money and inflict misery. I urge everyone to Stop! Think Fraud to protect themselves and those close to you.”
Lord Hanson highlighted the government's investment of £250 million as part of a new Fraud Strategy to crack down on fraud. “We will continue to work with industry and use every tool at our disposal to disrupt criminal operations, bring fraudsters to justice and strengthen support for victims,” he said.
Practical Tips to Stay Safe
NatWest advises customers to stick to trusted sellers, avoid bank transfers when something doesn't feel right, and take a moment to pause before making a payment. Van Weenan emphasised: “Whether it’s sticking to trusted sellers, avoiding bank transfers when something doesn’t feel right, or simply taking a moment to pause before making a payment, these small actions can make a huge difference. Our goal is to help Londoners feel confident, informed and in control when it comes to their money this summer.”
