Email banking scam moves on to Lloyds TSB

By Matt Whipp

Posted on 11 Dec 2003 at 12:39

The email scam that spoofed a security announcement from Natwest on Monday has now moved on to Lloyds TSB.

The email, which has been sent to both customers and non-customers of the bank, reads: 'Our new security system will help you to avoid frequently fraud transactions and to keep your investments in safety... Due to technical update we recommend you to reactivate your account.'

The poor use of language may be giveaway enough, but the associated graphics give the email a professional appearance. Should you click the link as requested, you are taken to a page wher eyou are asked to fill in personal information.

A spokesperson for the bank told us that a new element to the scam is the request for 'memorable information'.

This is a nine digit numerical sequence that Lloyds TSB would request customers enter random positions in the sequence to authenticate themselves. However the scam asks for all nine digits.

The spokesperson told us that only 'a very very small number of customers' had input these details into the scam email and the bank had since suspended those accounts for the time being.

He said Lloyds TSB 'would never ask for that information in full.'

Lloyds TSB is currently working with the National High Tech Crime Unit to close down the fraudulent site. Although there is no need to contact the bank simply because you find the email in your inbox, customers that are worried they may have given away sensitive information should contact the bank on 0845 3000 116.