International Transfer Fraud
International transfers present a challenge because the PSR mandatory reimbursement rules only cover UK-to-UK bank transfers. But that doesn’t mean you have no options — other legal routes may be available depending on your circumstances.
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Protection coverage
Maximum recovery: Varies — depends on circumstances and legal route
Time limit: 6 years (FOS / common law)
Key points
PSR mandatory reimbursement does NOT cover international transfers
FCA Consumer Duty still applies — your bank has obligations
The Financial Ombudsman can review how your bank handled it
Common law routes may be available for some international fraud cases
Each case needs individual assessment — contact us for a free review
The PSR mandatory reimbursement scheme covers payments via Faster Payments and CHAPS between UK accounts. If your money was sent internationally (via SWIFT or to a non-UK account), these specific rules don’t apply.
However, other routes may be available. Your bank still has obligations under the FCA Consumer Duty to act in your best interests and prevent foreseeable harm. If your bank failed to detect fraud indicators — such as unusual international transfers or payments to known high-risk jurisdictions — they may still bear responsibility.
The Financial Ombudsman can also consider complaints about how your bank handled an international transfer, even where PSR rules don’t apply directly.
Common Questions
International Transfer Fraud — your questions answered
If your payment was a Faster Payment or CHAPS transfer to a UK account, the PSR rules may apply — even if the fraudster subsequently moved the money abroad. The PSR rules focus on the payment you made, not what happened to the money afterwards.
It’s more difficult but not impossible. Your bank may be able to attempt a recall. The FCA Consumer Duty and FOS complaints process can still apply. In some cases, common law claims may be viable. We assess each case individually.
We operate on a no-win, no-fee basis under a Damages-Based Agreement. If your claim is unsuccessful, you pay nothing. If we recover funds for you, our fee is a percentage of the amount recovered. The exact percentage is clearly explained before you sign anything, as required by SRA regulations.
The PSR mandatory reimbursement scheme applies to payments made within 13 months. For older cases, the Financial Ombudsman can consider complaints up to 6 years from the event, or 3 years from when you became aware. We can assess your eligibility during the free initial review.
Lost money via international transfer?
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