This page provides some advice and guidance about keeping yourself and your money safe online. Please note that any legitimate correspondence from BLME will come from one of the following emails domains. Any others are likely to be a cyber scam.

✓ @BLME.com
✓ @Nomobank.com
✓ @Nomo.Bank

For support or to check the legitimacy of a communication please contact info@BLME.com

What are cyber scams?

Cyber scams are fraudulent schemes that use the internet, email, phone calls, text messages, or other online platforms to deceive and defraud people. Cyber scammers may pretend to be legitimate businesses, organisations, or individuals, and offer fake products, services, prizes, or opportunities. They will often look to exploit emotions such as fear, greed, pity or embarrassment, and create a sense of urgency to pressure you into acting before you have fully considered the request.

They may also try to trick people into revealing their personal or financial information, such as passwords, bank account details, credit card numbers, or identity documents. Cyber scammers can use this information to access people's accounts, steal their money, or commit identity theft.

How to keep your information and money safe

Cyber scams can be hard to spot and avoid, but there are some steps you can take to protect yourself and your money:

- Be cautious and suspicious of any unsolicited or unexpected messages, calls, or websites that ask you to provide personal or financial information, click on a link, open an attachment, or transfer money. Do not respond or act on them unless you are sure the request is genuine and from a trusted source.

- Verify the identity and legitimacy of the sender, caller, or website before you engage with them. Check the email address, phone number, website address, or social media profile for any signs of fraud, such as spelling errors, unusual domains, or mismatched names. Contact the organisation or person directly using a different method or a verified number or address to confirm if they have contacted you.

- Use strong and unique passwords for all your accounts. Do not re-use the same password for multiple accounts or devices, or share them with anyone else. Use a password manager to create and store complex passwords.

- Use two-factor authentication (2FA) or multi-factor authentication (MFA) for your online accounts and devices, if available. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring you to enter a code, answer a question, or use a device to verify your identity when you log in or make a transaction.

- Use a secure and updated device, browser, and network when you go online. Protect your information by enabling your device’s screen lock with a passcode or biometric (e.g. Face ID or fingerprint scanner) . Install anti-malware software and other security tools, and keep them updated. Use a secure browser that blocks pop-ups and malicious websites, and clear your browsing history and cookies regularly.

- Avoid using public or unsecured Wi-Fi networks or and use a virtual private network (VPN) or a secure connection (https) when you access sensitive or confidential information. Links starting with http is often a sign that the site is not legitimate.

- Review your bank statements and credit reports regularly for any unusual or unauthorized transactions or activities. Report any suspicious or fraudulent charges or accounts to your bank or credit provider as soon as possible.

- Protect your personal data and don’t give it away freely on social media sites. The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has guides for setting privacy controls on the main social media platforms.

- Educate yourself and others about cyber scams and how to prevent and report them. Stay informed about the latest scams and trends, and learn how to recognize and avoid them. Share your knowledge and experience with family, friends, and colleagues, and warn them about any scams you encounter or hear about.

- Report any cyber scams you experience or witness to the relevant authorities, such as your bank, the police, or the regulatory agencies. You can also report them to websites or organisations that help people fight against cyber scams, such as Action Fraud, Cyber Aware, or FCA's ScamSmart.

 

For more information:

Take 5 - National campaign offering straight forward, impartial advice on how to avoid scams

Action Fraud - You can report a crime or get general advice from Action Fraud

Cyber Aware - Government advice on how to stay safe online

FCA’s ScamSmart - Part of the Financial Conduct Authority’s website has information and resources to help you avoid investment and pension scams