Crowds of people flocked to ATM machines across the UK to supposedly claim “free cash” of up to £250 following the Barclays online banking and app outage which has impacted customers over the last couple of days.
A major technical glitch at the bank has caused widespread disruption across the UK, with customers unable to access their accounts, make payments or get paid for nearly free days.
A social media trend claimed people could claim £250 in “free cash” from ATMs following the Barclays app outage
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“Im actually howling at how many people are in their pyjamas at the cash machine because of this Barclays thing,” reported one TikToker in Liverpool. “The whole of the UK is taking out money, people queuing up for money, free money,” another user posted as the trend gained traction.
Police in north London were seen intervening to prevent people from withdrawing cash, informing the public it was not actually “free money”, The Sun reports. A Barclays spokesman has confirmed that any funds withdrawn during the glitch “will be debited from their account.”
Some social media users attempted to warn others about the consequences of making the withdrawal and being overdrawn, with one TikToker cautioning: “ENJOY PAYING IT BACK.”
Earlier this morning, Barclays spokesman said: “The technical issue impacting our customers on Friday and Saturday has been resolved and delayed payments processed.”
Barclays has claimed the issue has been “resolved”
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The bank confirmed customers can now use their app, bank online, make calls, use cards and withdraw cash. “We are very sorry for any disruption and will ensure that no impacted customer is left out of pocket,” the spokesman added.
Furthermore, the bank is keeping call centres open longer this weekend and will proactively contact vulnerable customers. Despite Barclays’ claims of resolution, some customers continue to report ongoing issues with their accounts.
One GB News reader, who has chosen to remain anonymous, got in touch to share how their family has been impacted by the IT glitch and how the outage appears to remain an issue despite the bank’s statement.
They explained: “The Barclays app failure is not resolved as per your story. They’re still telling people they can’t make payments.” The same customer reported that a payment made on Friday had still not been processed.
“There’s been no message to customers saying it’s resolved. The only difference from Friday’s outage is that you can now look at your account,” they added.
Oliver Sissons, SEO Director at digital PR agency Reboot Online, previously explained why user experience with digital platforms is critical to maintaining brand trust, especially for banks and building societies.
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Customers are voicing their concern about this weekend’s IT outage
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He said: “In today’s digital world, ensuring that your website or app offers a good user experience is more important than ever.
“Failing to do so risks consumers engaging less with your product and brand, and even seeking alternative options who provide a better user experience at the first chance they get and as soon as it makes sense to do so.
“In an industry as important as banking, one where you’d think the biggest brands would want to exude competence, confidence and security in every area, it is surprising to see so much negative sentiment surrounding the apps available.
A Barclays spokesman told GB News: “Customers can use their debit cards to withdraw cash from ATMs, up to their daily limit. Any funds will be debited from their account.”
