Text scams are spiking: here's how to spot them

In the last few years, we’ve seen a spike in scams where fraudsters try to convince you to hand over your account login details.

Before we go any deeper, the key thing to know is that Revolut never sends text messages asking for security information or to click on a link. If we send you a text message that says we require any information, we’ll direct you to the app where you can provide it securely.

So, if you get a text message that appears to be from us that asks you to click a link, chances are it’s a scam.

These fraudsters are professionals, and their emails and text messages can be very convincing. So, we’ll explain how to spot these fake messages, and what to do if you’re unsure.

The information provided is accurate as of 26 January 2026.

How to tell if it’s Revolut or a scam?

Calls or text messages can look like they’re coming from Revolut, so if you receive an unexpected call or text message from us, use these tips to decide whether or not it’s legitimate.

In a text message, we’ll never:

• Claim that we’ve detected suspicious activity on your account
• Send you a link to a website and ask you to provide sensitive information (like a password, phone number, or your PIN)

Outside our app, we’ll never ask for:

• Your PIN (this is the 4 digit number you use to log in, make card payments, or withdraw money from an ATM)
• The full 16 digit number on your card or 3 digit number on the back of your card
• Any other password like your email address password, app passcode, or other sensitive information

4 tactics scammers use to target you

Criminals are always finding new ways to get around security, and they often pretend to be brands you trust. They want to catch you off guard so you don't check the details of the message. They might even make their fake messages show up in the same place as real texts from us.

1. Delivery and parcel alerts

You receive a text saying a parcel is held at a depot due to an 'unpaid shipping fee.' It includes a link to pay a small amount (usually £1.50 to £3.00).

• The scam: once you enter your card details to pay the small fee, the criminals steal your info to make large unauthorised purchases
• The fix: always track your parcels through the official app or website of the courier, never through a text link

2. Job scams

You receive a text from an unknown number or a ‘recruitment agent’ offering a high-paying role. They claim to have found a profile on a job board.

• The scam: you’re asked to pay upfront for ’onboarding’, training materials, or software to get started. In some cases, you may be asked to ’top up’ an account with your own money to complete simple tasks for a commission.
• The fix: legitimate employers will never ask you to pay them to secure a job or for equipment. Always verify the job through the company's official website or LinkedIn page.

3. The 'safe account' scam

A scammer calls or texts pretending to be from the ‘Revolut Fraud team’ or ‘Revolut Financial Crime team.’ They claim your account is ‘under attack’ and you must move your money to a ‘safe’ holding account.

• The scam: there's no 'safe account.' Once you transfer the money, it's gone.

• The fix: check the in-app banner to confirm if a call is from us. Then hang up immediately if it's not us. Then tap the banner to and follow the steps.

We never call you out of the blue. Our team will first communicate via the secure in-app chat or an in-app notification if we need to reach you.

4. Purchase scams

You see a great deal on social media for an item you want. When you message the seller, they ask for your mobile number to move the conversation to a text or messaging app.

• The scam: once on text, the seller insists you pay by bank transfer instead of using a protected card or the site's official checkout. Once you pay, they block your number and the item never arrives.
• The fix: only buy from sites you trust and keep all communication on the official platform. Be careful when deals look too good to be true.

How Revolut protects you

As you keep your eye out for potential scams, it’s important to know how Revolut keeps your money safe. Here are a few security features that have your back:

• Interactive scam warnings: real-time, adaptive alerts that flag high-risk transactions and ask you to check and verify unusual payments before they are processed.
• Multi-factor authentication (MFA): multi-layered account security combining biometrics (Face/Fingerprint ID), secure PINs, and one-time SMS passcodes.
• Wealth Protection: an extra biometric ID layer you can activate that prevents unauthorised withdrawals over your chosen limit even if your phone is unlocked.
• In-app calling banner: a banner appears at the top of your screen when opening the Revolut app while on a phone call. It lets you know if you’re on the phone with Revolut or not.

What to do if someone calls or texts you claiming to be from Revolut:

• Stop and consider: using the info above, consider the legitimacy of the message and if they're attempting any common scam tactics. Look for sings that differentiate a scam from the real deal.

• Confirm it with us: if you’re still unsure about the legitimacy of a message, ask the opinion of a friend or family member, or reach out via our 24/7 in-app support chat to confirm if it's us.

• Check the in-app calling banner: you can now confirm all phone calls from us in-app with our live calling banner. If the banner says we're not on the phone with you, hang up and tap the banner to report the number to us.

Learn more on our Fraud and scams page.

Take control of your security. Sign up for Revolut and use our smart tools to fight against fraudsters today.

Frequently asked questions

Is Revolut calling me to report a scam attempt?

No, we don't make unexpected calls. If you get a call from someone saying they're from our team and you didn't expect it, it's likely a scam. All real talk about your money or account happens through our secure in-app chat, or official channels, we’ll typically notify you there before calling you.

What if I've been scammed with my Revolut account?

If you think you may have been the victim of a scam, we’re here to support you in any way we can. First, stop communicating with the scammer and report the fraud to us so that we can secure your account. If you’ve shared details with the fraudster, you may need to freeze your cards or change your passcode.

How can I tell if a message from Revolut is real?

Real messages from us will come through the app or via official channels. Always be wary of communications outside the app. If you get a text with a link, don't click it. Instead, open the app yourself and check for any alerts there.