Partner and spouse fraud

Sometimes, you may let a partner or spouse use your bank account. But if you change your mind or split up, how do you protect your money?

You should be the only person to use your bank card and PIN. And the only one to sign in to your Online Banking account.

This will help to keep your money out of other people's hands.

Partner and spouse fraud image

Tips to avoid partner and spouse fraud

  • If you live with a spouse or partner and share costs, you could get a joint bank account. This will give you both your own banking details. 

    But if the relationship ends, make sure you close the account.

  • Use random words and numbers to create a strong password or PIN. If you choose personal dates or names, it can be easier for others to guess them. 

    If your partner knows your banking details and the relationship ends, change them.

  • Try to memorise your PIN, password and other banking details. If you write them down and someone else sees, they could try to use your account.

  • Make sure you keep most of your cash in the bank and not in the house.

  • If you have a cheque book, make sure it's kept in a safe place.

    Keep a note of each cheque you use and look at your account to make sure it was cashed properly. This also helps to know how many you have left.

  • Take Five

    You can get straight forward, impartial advice on how to avoid scams from Take Five.

    Action Fraud

    You can report a crime or get general advice from Action Fraud. They help banks and other companies combat fraud.

    Get Safe Online

    They offer advice on how to keep yourself and your devices safe from fraud.

    UK Finance

    UK Finance is there to support customers and to help make sure it's safe to bank.

    Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA)

    The PRA is part of the Bank of England. Their role is to make sure banks act safely and reduce the chance of them losing money.

    Financial Conduct Authority (FCA)

    The FCA is there to make sure banks work well so customers are protected and get a fair deal.

    CIFAS

    CIFAS can help to protect your identity. They can stop fraudsters from using your details to apply for things in your name.

    Cyber Aware

    This is a government site that gives advice on how to stay safe online.

    ScamSmart

    This is part of the FCA site. You can use it to check on an investment or pension deals to help you avoid scams.

    Halifax does not control the content of any of the websites linked to on this page.

Think you’ve fallen for a scam?

Think you’ve fallen for a scam?

You should contact us right away if you think you’ve been scammed. We can then guide you on what to do next.

Contact us now

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Halifax is a division of Bank of Scotland plc. Registered in Scotland No. SC327000. Registered Office: The Mound, Edinburgh EH1 1YZ. Bank of Scotland plc is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority under registration number 169628.