N26 has established itself as one of the most popular digital banks in recent years and has millions of users worldwide.
But where modern banking and fast account management take digital innovation, the risk of fraud cases does not fail. In the past, the bank has repeatedly made the headlines, be it through phishing attacks, identity theft or irregularities when opening an account.
In this article we illuminate which Fraud cases the N26 In recent years, it shook how customers were affected and what measures the bank took to increase security. You will find out:
- Which fraud stitches occur most fraudulent.
- Which security precautions the bank has implemented.
- How you can protect yourself from fraud if you use an N26 account.
Cases and security problems at N26: That is behind it
N26 is one of the most famous digital banks and stands for modern, uncomplicated banking via app.
But the simplicity and focus on technology also have a downside: Again and again the bank has been associated with fraud cases, security gaps and problems in customer service in recent years.
Fake accounts and money laundering: The dark side of the digital account opening
N26 has been criticized several times for criminals abuse the simple account opening for fraudulent purposes.
So-called “fake accounts” were opened, which were often used for money laundering or fraudulent online shops.
- What happened: Between 2019 and 2021, more than 1,600 suspicious accounts were identified. In 2025, over 1,000 cases came to light again. These accounts were often opened under false identities or unwittingly registered by unsuspecting people who were abused for supposed job offers or market research orders.
- Example: A man from Bavaria unknowingly opened an account when he carried out the video chat test at N26 for an alleged market research company. Weeks later it turned out that this account was used for illegal activities.
- BaFin reactions: The Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BAFIN) imposed fines and sent special officers to monitor the internal processes of N26.
Most important information:
- Over 1,000 new suspected cases in 2025 alone.
- N26 has been reprimanded several times for insufficient money laundering prevention.
- Stricter identity tests should prevent such cases.
Phishing attacks and account takeovers: a risk for customers
Phishing is one of the most common fraud stitches that also affect N26 customers. Fraudsters send emails or SMS that seem deceptively real and ask customers to enter their access data.
With this data, criminal accounts take over and clear them empty.
- How Phishing works: Customers receive emails with subject lines such as “important account talentation” or “recognized suspicious activity”. A link gets to fake websites that look like the login page of N26.
- Example: In Italy, customers were led to harmful links via SMS, which enabled the fraudsters to gain access to their accounts. A customer lost 80,000 euros because his account details were stolen.
- Criticism of customer service: Many victims reported that the N26 support reacted slowly and it was difficult to get lost money back.
Most important information:
- Phishing emails and fake SMS are widespread.
- Two-factor authentication is strongly recommended.
- Customer service has been improved to react faster to such incidents.
Accounts through security gaps: weaknesses in the authentication process
In addition to phishing, there were also direct security deficiencies in the N26 system.
These made it possible to assume accounts and carry out transactions without sufficient collateral.
- Problematic functions: Security researchers revealed that weaknesses in the “Moneybeam” function (money transfers by email or telephone number) and for voice commands via Siri could be used to carry out unauthorized transfers.
- Bank measures: N26 has remedied these weaknesses and introduced additional safety layers such as real-time notifications in order to recognize unauthorized activities faster.
Most important information:
- Vulnerabilities in the app were uncovered by IT experts.
- Safety updates should close these gaps.
- Users should only use secure devices for banking.
Fine and measures of the supervisory authorities
The problems with N26 led to repeated fines through the bafin.
Above all, this criticized the late report of suspicious transactions and inadequate prevention against money laundering.
- Height of the fines:
- 2021: 4.25 million euros for late money laundering reports.
- 2022: 9.2 million euros for similar violations.
- Reactions of N26: The bank invested more than 100 million euros in new security systems and hired additional employees to meet compliance requirements.
Most important information:
- Repeated fines due to money laundering violations.
- Significant investments in safety and compliance.
Problems with account locks: When anti-fraud measures hit customers
Another common problem with N26 is sudden account locks.
When suspicious activities are found, the bank often blocks the account immediately – sometimes without warning. While this is required by law, it leads to major problems for innocent customers.
- Example: A customer reported that her account was blocked with 15,000 euros. Despite several inquiries, it took weeks for her to have access to her money again.
- Criticism: Customers criticize that communication in such cases is poor and often there are no clear instructions on how the problem can be solved.
Most important information:
- Accounts are used for fraud prevention, but often affect innocent customers.
- Improved communication was promised by the bank.
How does N26 react to the criticism?
N26 has taken numerous measures to increase the security standards and regain the trust of customers.
The most important improvements include:
- Stricter identity tests: Multi -stage verifications at the account opening.
- AI-based fraud recognition: Self -learning systems analyze transactions in real time.
- Expansion of customer service: More staff and new communication channels like a live chat.
- Training for customers: N26 actively informs users about phishing and other fraud stitches.
This is how you effectively protect yourself against fraud as a bank customer
Falls in online banking can meet anyone-especially for digital banks such as N26, which are particularly the focus of cybercriminals due to their technology.
With the right precautions and some attention, however, you can protect your account from fraudsters.
1. Use the two-factor authentication (2FA)
The two-factor authentication is one of the most effective safety measures. In addition to your password, a second factor – such as a one -time code that is sent to your smartphone is required to log in or carry out transactions. This makes it much more difficult for fraudsters to get access to their account.
- Example: You would like to log into the N26 app. In addition to its password, the app calls for a confirmation of a code that is sent to your cell phone. Even if a fraudster knows her password, he won’t get anywhere without access to your smartphone.
Tip: Make sure that 2FA is activated in your online banking. With N26 and other banks, you can switch this function directly into the app settings.
2. Check messages for authenticity
Phishing emails and SMS are one of the most common methods with which fraudsters try to get their data. You camouflage yourself as official messages from your bank and ask you to reveal personal information such as passwords or pins.
- Example: You will receive an email that apparently comes from N26 with the request: “Your account was blocked. Please click here to update your access data. ”However, the link leads to a fake website that takes your data.
This is how you recognize phishing attempts:
- Check the sender address: Official bank emails always come from domains like @n26.com.
- Do not click on suspicious links-log in directly via the bank app or the official website.
- Your bank will never ask you by email or SMS about passwords.
3. Keep your software up to date
Outdated software, be it on your smartphone or computer, can have weaknesses that are used by fraudsters. A current operating system and the latest version of your banking app are essential for your safety.
- Example: A user of an older smartphone was the victim of an attack because a security gap in the app version was not closed. An update could have prevented the attack.
Tip: Activate automatic updates for apps and the operating system to always stay up to date.
4. Use only safe networks
Open WLAN networks such as in cafes or in public locations are a paradise for criminals. You can intercept data there and possibly even record your login data.
- Example: A customer logs into his N26 account in an airport WLAN. A hacker who is also on the network can intercept data traffic and take over the account.
Tip: Always use a trustworthy, private WiFi or a mobile data connection for online banking. Even better: Use a virtual private network (VPN) to encrypt your connection.
5. Check your account movements regularly
A quick look at the last transactions can reveal fraud early. Many banks such as N26 offer real-time notifications that you will inform you immediately if a payment is made.
- Example: You notice a transaction of over 50 euros that you have not authorized. Thanks to the real-time notification, you can contact the bank immediately and have your account locked.
Tip: Switch on push notifications in your banking app and regularly check your account statements. React immediately when you find suspicious activities.
6. Select a safe password
Your password is the key to your account – and should be strong accordingly. A simple “123456” or “password” makes it easy to access your account.
- Example: A customer uses the same password for several services, including his N26 account. When another service is hacked, fraudsters are given access to the account.
Tip: Use a password with at least 12 characters consisting of upper and small letters, numbers and special characters. Use a unique password for each platform and save it safely in a password manager.
Conclusion: Cases for N26 – opportunities and challenges
N26 has developed into one of the leading digital banks in recent years, but success also brings challenges.
Falls of fraud, such as fake accounts, phishing attacks and account takeovers, have shown that digital banks in particular are the focus of cybercriminals. In the event of suspicion of fraud, some customers have also annoyed account locks and triggered uncertainties.
N26 reacted on the positive side: With improved security measures, such as AI-based transaction monitoring and two-factor authentication, the bank sets new standards to prevent fraud. In addition, there was a massive investment in customer service and compliance areas to offer faster solutions and more transparency.
However, the following applies to customers: Vigilance remains crucial. With simple measures such as avoiding phishing traps, activating security features and regular control of the account movements, you can effectively protect yourself.
Despite the headlines is still an attractive option for bank customersthat value a digital and easy -to -use account. But as with every bank applies: security is always a common responsibility.