The promise sounded simple. Fast returns. No risk. Easy money. But within days, what began as an undercover investigation byThe Sun's Assistant Editor Clemmie Moodie became a stark warning about the growing sophistication of online investment scams.
HSBC has now refunded the £1,000 Moodie transferred to Lee Andrews, the husband of media personality Katie Price, after the bank concluded that forged HSBC branding had allegedly been used during the scheme. The case has attracted national attention, not only because of Andrews' links to celebrity culture, but because it highlights how fraudsters increasingly exploit trust, urgency, and social media influence to target victims.
Moodie transferred £1,000 to Andrews as part of an investigation designed to test promises he allegedly made about investment returns. According to reports published byThe Sun, Andrews claimed he could triple the money through a so-called 'zero risk' investment opportunity. Instead, what followed was a chain of excuses, delays, and disputed claims.
Moodie reportedly received a payment screenshot carrying HSBC branding, appearing to show that £2,900 had been scheduled to land in her account. The money never arrived. HSBC later concluded the document had been fabricated.
David Callington, Head of Economic Crime Prevention at HSBC UK, praised the investigation and said the case served as an important lesson for customers. He said: 'It's great thatThe Sunis educating readers on how to spot and avoid fraud and what warning signs to look out for.' Callington added that any HSBC customer caught in a similar situation should contact the bank to discuss possible support and recovery options.
Andrews, who has described himself online as an 'international mastermind criminal', has become the focus of wider scrutiny in recent weeks. Reports claim Hertfordshire Police escalated their investigation into the Dubai-based businessman, leading to international involvement through Interpol channels.
At the same time,Katie Pricehas publicly claimed that Andrews is currently imprisoned in Dubai on spying-related allegations. Neither Andrews nor representatives linked to him publicly responded to the allegations contained in the reports at the time of publication. The story has generated intense public reaction because of Andrews' relationship with Price, one of Britain's most recognisable media figures over the past two decades.
HSBC warned thatsocial media platformsare becoming major hunting grounds for investment scammers. Fraudsters often use luxury lifestyles, fake testimonials, and edited payment records to create credibility quickly. In many cases, victims are persuaded through direct messages or informal conversations rather than traditional financial channels.
According to the bank, promises of unusually high or guaranteed returns remain one of the clearest warning signs. Pressure tactics also play a key role. Victims are frequently told opportunities are limited or time sensitive. Some are discouraged from seeking independent advice. Others are directed towards private bank transfers, cryptocurrency payments or personal accounts that are difficult to trace.
HSBC also warned consumers to remain cautious of slick-looking apps or investment dashboards showing apparent profits. Many victims only discover problems when withdrawal requests are delayed or rejected.
Source: International Business Times UK
