What is authorised push payment (APP) fraud?
By SendPay Business · · 2 min read
Authorised push payment (APP) fraud is when someone is tricked into sending money by bank transfer to a fraudster. The payment is 'authorised' because the victim made it themselves, which is what makes these scams hard to stop.
Common APP scams
- Impersonation: someone pretending to be your bank, the police or HMRC.
- Invoice redirection: a fake email saying a supplier's bank details have changed.
- Purchase scams: paying for goods that never arrive.
- Romance and investment scams that build trust over time.
Warning signs
Pressure to act fast, requests to move money to a 'safe account', new bank details sent by email, and anyone asking you to keep a payment secret are all red flags.
If it happens
Contact your bank or payment provider straight away. In the UK, payment firms are now required to reimburse most APP fraud victims, subject to limits and conditions set by the Payment Systems Regulator.
Where SendPay fits
SendPay platforms include transfers and payment links under your own brand, powered by licensed partners. SendPay tells you in writing which licences apply to your platform before you pay.
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This guide is general information, not legal or financial advice. SendPay Business is a technology company, not a bank, and does not take deposits; regulated services on the platforms are provided by licensed partners. PayPal, Patreon and Substack are named as reference points only and are not affiliated with SendPay Business.