Lloyds Bank warns customers risk having £800 wiped from their account

Lloyds Bank has warned customers could have £800 wiped from their account - and said: "Pay attention". Lloyds Banking Group has warned over summer holiday season, as bank account holders risk losing over £700 to a scam.

Victims are losing on average £765, up 4% on previous year and those aged 35 to 44 a quarter of all victims (27%). Holiday purchase scams have risen 7% over the past year with flight tickets most common fake item sold relating to holidays, followed by caravans..

Nearly half of holiday scams start on Facebook (including Marketplace) (49%), with Lloyds Bank warning fraudsters also use Airbnb and Booking.com to lure victims. As well as flight scams, Airbnb scams are also on the rise.

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Liz Ziegler, Fraud Prevention Director at Lloyds Bank, said: “It’s important people take steps to ensure they are purchasing something that is real." She went on: “Always take the time to think about purchases you make online, and when in doubt, always book through a trusted retailer.

"When it comes to booking stays, always use your card and don’t be fooled by hosts asking you to ignore the websites rules and transfer money directly to them.” Tips to stay safe include purchase tickets and hotel stays from trusted retailers or, even better, direct from the airline or hotel.

Always use your debit or credit card and when booking stays through websites such as Airbnb and Booking.com, only pay through their systems. Do not transfer any money directly to the host.

Be cautious on social media and don’t succumb to pressure. If a seller is trying to rush you, or bombarding you with messages, take a step back and question their keenness as this is likely to be pressure selling, Lloyds has warned.

Your bank is likely to provide a warning when you set up a new payee or make an unusual payment. Be sure to follow any advice provided.