Is it safe to give someone your sort code and account number?

Is It Safe to Share Your Sort Code and Account Number?

Sharing your bank account details, including your sort code and account number, is generally considered safe when done with trusted individuals or entities. However, caution is always advised to protect against potential fraud or misuse.

When Sharing Is Safe

• Trusted Family or Friends: It is common to share bank details with close family members or friends for financial assistance or bill splitting.
• Verified Businesses: Reputable businesses that require payment (e.g., utilities, subscriptions) can be safely provided with your bank details to set up recurring payments or receive invoices.
• Government Agencies: Official government agencies or entities may request your bank details for specific purposes, such as tax refunds or benefit payments.

When Sharing Is Risky

• Strangers: Never share your bank details with strangers or unsolicited callers. Scammers often use phishing tactics to obtain sensitive information like sort codes and account numbers.
• Unexpected Contacts: Be wary of emails, texts, or calls from unknown entities claiming to be from banks or financial institutions. These may be attempts to impersonate legitimate sources to steal your details.
• Unverified Websites: Avoid providing your bank details on unfamiliar or untrustworthy websites. Legitimate businesses typically have secure payment gateways that protect your information.

Protecting Your Information

To ensure the safety of your bank account information, follow these guidelines:

• Only share your details with trusted individuals or entities.
• Be cautious of unexpected requests for your bank details.
• Verify the legitimacy of any business or organization before sharing your information.
• Use strong and unique passwords for your online banking accounts.
• Monitor your bank statements regularly for any unauthorized transactions.
• Report any suspicious activity or unauthorized access to your bank immediately.

By adhering to these precautions, you can safely share your sort code and account number when necessary while protecting yourself from fraud. Remember, the key is to exercise caution and only share your details with trusted sources.