Bereavement scams
Scammers are relentless and willing to target anyone. They’ll even use the death of a relative to try and steal your money or that of your loved one. Here’s what to look out for and how to best protect yourself and those close to you.
How it can happen
You’ve suffered a bereavement in your family and unexpectedly someone gets in touch, claiming the deceased owed them money.
Someone posing as an insurance agent contacts you claiming you’re entitled to a large insurance payout but you need to pay a premium to access it.
How you can protect yourself
If you decide to announce the death of a loved one publicly, be careful what information you share. Providing a date of birth, address, full name or maiden name can give scammers enough information.
Before paying anyone, check they’re who they say they are. Research the company yourself to make sure they have a real website or office address. Find a phone number from a reliable source like the official website, call them and ask if the payout or debt is real.
Never make a spontaneous payment or feel pressured into one. No insurance company will insist you pay there and then and they won’t mind you checking to make sure they are who they say they are either.
If you’re unsure about anything, hang up. If you feel threatened, call the police.
If you’re concerned about a bereavement scam relating to your Zempler Bank account or your bereaved relative’s account, contact us immediately.