The Cyber Security Centre for the Isle of Man is warning it has received reports of scam text messages purporting to be from Lloyds Bank.
A spokesperson said: “The messages claim an unfamiliar payment or Direct Debit has been placed on hold and urge the recipient to take immediate action by replying or calling a phone number.
“If you receive a message like this, don’t respond using the contact details in the message.”
Instead, the centre says, you should check your account using your normal banking app or website and, if you are concerned, contact your bank independently using a trusted number, such as the number on the back of your bank card.
Although the current reports reference Lloyds Bank, the centre says scammers can impersonate any bank.
“Don’t let urgency pressure you into acting. Stop and check first.”