In one case, a customer in Santandale was fooled by an ad for a cryptocurrency investment that falsely claimed to have been approved by MoneySavingExpert Martin Lewis.
After sharing his details, he was contacted by a scammer who persuaded him to transfer thousands of pounds to his crypto account. The criminal argued that Santander “doesn’t want to invest in cryptocurrencies” and advised the victim to lie to his bank about the reason for the transfer.
Only after talking to his family and following a request for money from a criminal did he realize that he had been scammed.
Lewis said: “Scammers are sophisticated, smart, and psychologically proficient. The idea that you’re a fool if you’re fooled by them is outdated. Lawyers, accountants, and college lecturers are all fraudulent. I have heard the story.
“Scamming my face and brand is a deliberate overthrow of the work of my life that helps consumers become financially savvy and protect themselves.”
Tony Neate of the campaign group GetSafe Online said the crisis in living expenses has led people to look for “quick solutions to earn additional cash.”
Neat said: If you feel it’s too good to be true, it’s probably true and you shouldn’t rush to invest. “
Chris Ainsley of Santander said:
“Regardless of who approves it, always do your homework and thoroughly investigate your investment opportunities before transferring funds.”