Learn about Investec's fraud prevention philosophy, how we collaborate with the wider industry, and our education and awareness initiatives. This is in line with the FCA/UK Finance requirements.

Fraud protection
Protecting your data, identity and money

Most of us think the world of fraud will never touch us. Until it does.
When you know fraud, you are empowered to prevent it. Be vigilant, be proactive, be secure.
How do I report fraud, card loss or theft, or suspicious activity on my account?
UK clients
Inside the UK: 0330 123 5985
Outside the UK: +44 (0)20 7597 2836
Are you a private client needing support?
Please see this emergency help page
Emergency help
Are you a UK Private Bank client needing support?
Please see your emergency help page.
Channel Islands clients
Inside Channel Islands: 01481 706 441
Outside Channel Islands: +44 1481 706 441
What to do if you think you are a victim of fraud
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Report your concerns to Investec
Use the numbers above to report a lost or stolen card or if you have noticed suspicious activity on your account.
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Talk to the authorities
We also urge you to report this to the authorities online at the following websites:
If you are in the UK: www.actionfraud.police.uk
In South Africa: www.safps.org.za (for application fraud or identity theft)
Warning: stay alert to current threats

Computer software service fraud
Fraudsters are posing as system support/ helpdesk advisers in cold calls or online popups, claiming to represent known broadband or software providers. They may claim that there is a problem with your device, or that you have been overcharged for services. They will ask you to download a remote access tool (like TeamViewer) to “fix the issue”. In fact, this software enables the fraudsters to access sensitive information on your device, or even log into your online banking.
Always remember:
1. Genuine organisations would never contact you out of the blue to ask for personal or financial details, such as your PIN or full banking password.
2. Never install any software, or grant remote access to your computer, because of a cold call.
3. Don’t contact companies promoting tech support services via browser pop-ups.
4. Hang up on any callers that claim they can get your money back for you.

WhatsApp fraud
As with SMS or phone calls, it is possible for other users to contact you on WhatsApp. Unfortunately, some of these people could be fraudsters who may send spam, fake news, and phishing messages to deceive and manipulate you.
During the Covid-19 pandemic and lockdown, we have noticed a sharp rise in WhatsApp scams with fake profiles targeting our clients.
The messages appear to be from Investec and offer investment opportunities or make appeals for philanthropic contributions. We have attached some screenshots from these fake profiles.
We’ll never ask you for personal or banking details over WhatsApp.
Please refer to our Focus UK article for more information about coronavirus scams.
If you receive a suspicious WhatsApp or SMS, please contact your Private Banker or the 24/7 global Client Support Centre (details on top of this page) immediately.

Brand impersonation of Investec and others
Is someone claiming to be from Investec? Fraudsters may contact you by telephone, email, SMS or text, letter or direct you to a website. These communications may look legitimate, with similar-sounding names to a bank or financial institution.
By adding official-looking logos, banking registration details and company numbers, these well-crafted deceptions give the impression that everything is right. If you’re not sure, call the head office switchboard, and never use numbers supplied by the person you’re suspicious of.
If you’ve already transferred money or information to a fraudster, contact your bank immediately. The bank may not recover all of it, but if you move quickly, it will recover what it can.
We maintain a list of companies and people who claim to be from Investec. With your feedback, we can keep everyone informed. You can review our full list of fraud alerts here.
If you think you have been targeted, click here to find more information on investment scams
Investec will never request personal details or other sensitive information via email or ask you for your PIN. We will never request you to click on a link to access your account.
See the many types of fraud and scams you could be a victim to

Stay alert
From email hacking and ‘phishing’ to fake unsubscribe buttons, find out the ways fraudsters are trying to trick you.

Protect your identity
Your personal details are valuable. Don’t respond to unexpected requests for validation of your security or personal details.

Protect your devices
There’s no such thing as free wifi. Make sure no-one can access or install malware in your computer and mobile devices.

Recognise malicious apps
Malware is a term for various forms of malicious software. It’s transmitted via email attachments and infected websites.

Use Investec Online
Our online banking service is hosted on a secure 128-bit encrypted server. This means that any information you send us is encoded for your protection.

Predict, detect, prevent and respond
As an Investec client, you benefit from the combination of our expertise in the security, risk, and fraud prevention disciplines.
The threat landscape evolves every day, and we work hard to adapt our security architecture, so as to manage associated risks.