Compensation for victims of scams and fraud

If you have been coerced or manipulated into sending money to criminals, you are not on your own, and UK rules now offer stronger protection. Since 7th October 2024, the Payment Systems Regulator has introduced a mandatory reimbursement approach for most situations where money has been transferred to criminals through common bank transfer routes. In many eligible cases, you should get your money back quickly, typically within five business days of making your claim, although banks can take longer in specific circumstances.

There are limits. Banks can apply an excess of up to £100 per claim, and they should not apply this to vulnerable customers. The standard maximum reimbursement under the rules is £85,000 per claim.

If you have had more than £85,000 stolen and it is not fully repaid, you can escalate the complaint to the Financial Ombudsman Service.

If this happens to you, contact your bank straight away and ask to start a reimbursement claim.

Financial Ombudsman Service:

📞 Phone

📧 Email

🏢 Postal Address

Financial Ombudsman Service
Exchange Tower
London
E14 9SR