Important update
    Motor finance commissions arrangements

    The Supreme Court has handed down its judgment in relation to the appeal regarding the motor finance commissions arrangements. Close Brothers is considering the judgment – any updates will be made available on our website. We continue to operate as normal and understand the importance of keeping our customers informed.

    Stay ahead of scams

    Stay ahead of scams protect yourself from fraudulent attacks

    As a trusted partner and finance provider for our and customers, we understand the importance of safeguarding against phishing and fraudulent digital attacks. We’ve created a trusted list of tips and advice to equip you with the knowledge and tools necessary to protect yourself from email, mobile, and online shopping scams.

     

    Working on emails

    Emails - keep your inbox safe with these simple steps

    Think before opening

    If you don’t recognise the sender of an email, you should always be cautious. Take a moment to double-check the subject line – does it look familiar or relevant to you?

    Trust your instincts 

    Sometimes, an email may look suspicious. Look out for things like messy formatting, inconsistent text sizes, or unusual images and consider deleting emails like this without replying. Clicking on links or responding can signal to the sender that you’re a potential target.

    Working on emails

    Online shopping - secure your online purchases

    Check before you buy

    If you're shopping from a new online shop or seller, take the time to check what other buyers have said in online reviews. When in doubt, proceed with caution—this could be a sign that things aren't always as they seem.

    Double-check your sources

    Be wary of emails or text messages which say they’re from a familiar shop or brand and ask you to log into their site for the latest updates. Before entering any account information, you should double-check the link and compare it with the website address you'd usually use. Cybercriminals may create fake sites in an attempt to trick you into giving them access to your accounts.

    Working on emails

    Mobile apps - secure your mobile experience

    Review before installing

    Before you install anything on your computer or mobile phone, you should make sure to thoroughly check  reviews and any other information on the security settings. If you're unable to find credible information, you’ll need to decide if installing the software is the best option for your security.

    Guard your confidential information

    Even if social apps like Zoom or WhatsApp claim to provide end-to-end encryption, you shouldn’t share confidential information through these platforms. You may not know, but your device could be infected with a virus that risks your security and allows cybercriminals access to the information you share.

    Spotting signs of fraud

     

    We're committed to ensuring the safety and security of our partners an, which is why we work tirelessly to prevent fraud. If you believe you've been a victim of fraud, please don't hesitate to reach out to us for assistance and guidance on next steps. 


    We will never contact you using generic or suspicious emails, we won’t ask you for immediate payment transfers via email, and we don’t work with partners who aren't regulated by the FCA. 

    Here are some resources that can help you learn more about spotting and reporting such criminal activities:

    Understanding Social Engineering

    Get to know the tactics used by cyber criminals.

    Cyber Aware

    The UK government's Cyber Aware program has advice on how to stay safe online.

    Click here to access their website

    Action Fraud

    If you've been scammed, defrauded, or experienced cybercrime in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, you should report it to the UK's national reporting centre Action Fraud.

    Click here to access their website

    Thinkuknow

    The education program from NCA-CEOP, Thinkuknow, protects children both online and offline from digital dangers.

    Click here to access their website

    Cifas

    An organisation dedicated to fighting economic crime and providing fraud prevention solutions and tools for businesses. They offer services such as personal data requests, protective registrations, fraud and scam advice, and resources for training and development of staff.

    Click here to access their website