Protect your N26 account from malware attacks

Your N26 account is protected by powerful security features. But scammers also target your device directly — using social engineering to trick you into giving them access. N26 has received reports of customers being contacted by scammers who try to install malware on their mobile devices. Knowing what to look out for is your best defense.

Scammers use three common tactics to target N26 customers. Here's how to recognize each one.

1. You get a text message asking you to call a phone number to fix an account issue.

N26 will never text you to ask you to call us. We never make outbound calls unless they're arranged through Messages from N26 in the app first. Any genuine N26 communication appears in the app — not in a text message.

If you're unsure whether a contact is genuine, stop engaging and ask for a specialist in the support chat (new tab).

2. You're pushed to download a new app outside the Google Play or Apple App Store.

The N26 app is only available on the Google Play store and the Apple App store. N26 doesn't have additional security apps. You don't need to download anything extra to secure, certify, or use your N26 account.

3. You're asked to change your Security, Accessibility, or Developer Settings.

N26 will never ask you to change these settings. Any instruction to do so is a warning sign that someone is trying to take control of your device.

If you think your device is infected, run malware-detecting software and make sure your antivirus is up to date. Keeping your operating system current also helps — many OS updates include fixes for known security issues.

To learn more about how to check your phone for malware, see Do you have malware on your phone? Here's how to check (new tab). For broader context on mobile threats, the Europol mobile malware resources (new tab) hub is a useful reference.

If you want to report a scam attempt, ask for a specialist in the support chat (new tab).