Security centre — Practical tips for customers

Clear, UK-focused guidance to help you spot scams, protect your accounts and devices, and report fraud.

Updated: 2026 — Guidance aligns with UK regulations and Action Fraud procedures.

Spot scams (quick)Privacy & safety

Top 6 quick security tips

Use strong unique passwords

Long passphrases and a reputable password manager reduce risk across accounts.

Enable 2FA

Use app-based authenticators rather than SMS where possible for added security.

Keep software updated

Install updates on your phone, tablet and PC to patch security flaws promptly.

• Check sender addresses carefully — look for subtle misspellings.
• Never give full bank passwords or PINs to anyone, even if they claim to be support.
• Review account statements regularly and report unexpected transactions quickly.

How to spot scams — examples

Look for unexpected requests to "verify" account details or click a link. Legitimate Co-operative Bank messages will never ask for your full password or passcode. If in doubt, sign in via our official website or contact us via contacts.html.

Scammers may spoof numbers to appear genuine. We will never ask for your card PIN or full online banking password over the phone. If you receive a suspicious call, hang up and call us back using the number on the website.

Check URLs for secure https and genuine domain names. Avoid logging in from search engine ads — use bookmarks to reach online banking. Report suspicious sites to our team and to Action Fraud.

Need immediate help? Visit Contacts for our verified numbers.

Device security

Protect the devices you use for banking with these straightforward steps.

Use screen lock (PIN, pattern, biometric) and enable auto-lock.
Install apps only from official stores (Google Play, Apple App Store).
Backup important data and enable device encryption where available.
When using public Wi‑Fi avoid sensitive activity or use a trusted VPN.

Reporting & resources

Security checklist

• 2FA enabled
• Password manager used
• Devices updated in last 30 days
• Regular statement review

Our security team

Our Security Centre team works to detect and mitigate fraud across the Co-operative Bank. If you suspect you've been targeted, contact us promptly and follow the guidance in resources below.

For support: Contacts · For data matters: Privacy

Reporting & further help

If you've experienced fraud or a scam, report it to the appropriate UK authorities and to us.

Report to Action Fraud

Action Fraud is the UK's national reporting centre for fraud. Use their online reporting tool for non-emergencies.

Financial Conduct Authority (FCA)

Check FCA guidance for scams and authorised firms. Verify any firm before sharing personal details.

Contact security team Privacy & data

FAQ — quick answers

Contact us immediately via the numbers on Contacts, freeze your card if needed and follow the team's instructions. Prompt reporting helps investigations and recovery.

We send account alerts via secure channels and never request full passwords or PINs. Verify any suspicious message by visiting our website directly.

More questions? See Contacts or our full security guidance pages.