Ellis Jones Success for Fraud Victim – Authorised Push Payment Code

We have written previously on the subject of Authorised Push Payment Fraud (“APP”) and unfortunately there are a continuing number of individuals falling victim to online fraudsters and scammers.

Recently the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) announced that those banks that have signed up to the APP Contingent Reimbursement Code have extended the interim funding while the government and regulators work to deliver a long term solution. On 10 December 2020 the Lending Standards Board published a report on how firms have implemented the warning provisions and it has been accepted that warnings could have been improved and enhanced.

There will be more updates and publications from the FCA in due course as it is fast becoming a serious issue for consumers.

Ellis Jones Case Report

Criminals are exploiting and adapting to Covid-19 at the detriment to individuals already suffering with lockdown rules and government restrictions. Ellis Jones was approached by one such victim who was scammed out of approximately £50,000 of his life savings. Initially our Client complained to the Bank himself and cited the APP Code, however his complaint was rejected. He then instructed Ellis Jones to assist and fortunately we were able to successfully recover a full refund plus interest on our Client’s behalf, despite the Bank’s initial rejection of their complaint.

We have found that all to often Banks will easily reject a genuine complaint, despite the facts and law being clear that a refund should be provided and offered in accordance with the agreed APP Code. Not only are individuals the victims of criminal activity, they are also being let down by their bank, who should be doing the right thing and not making it harder for its customers to utilise the refund schemes available to them.

Our Client was extremely pleased with the result and was able to move on from the incident without further stress and anxiety that had undoubtedly been caused.

How Can Ellis Jones Assist You?

Our specialist Banking and Finance Litigation team can advise and assist you in submitting an initial complaint to your Bank and any subsequent complaint to the Financial Ombudsman Service if you believe you are a victim a scam.

If you believe you may be due compensation please do not hesitate to contact  our Banking and Finance Litigation team by calling 01202 525333 or by email at banking@ellisjones.co.uk.