Is this dodgy or am I just being paranoid??

[TestMangler]

Yup, you've surprised me. I had a look at Big Pockets, who at least require you to register a Debit or Credit card with them before you get to see their BACS details, but these guys just straight out publishing their bank account numbers online amaze me.

You can ask your bank to put a watch on Direct Debits and Standing Orders to ensure that none are set up without your express consent. I wonder if that's what these guys do?

I used to have a Computer shop in Uddingston and I had my BACS details on my website. never caused a problem at the time, although it was about 10 years ago.

When i had a quick look on Google, I searched "We accept payment by BACS" and of the first five I looked at, three were showing them without any form of login.

[Gentile]

I presume you never written a cheque before, handed anyone your debit or credit cards or put a card in a card reader?

If you have then you have allowed people who could be malicious employees an opportunity to get details to defraud you of money.

Cheques: no, not for about 10-15 years. With Credit and Debit cards, I at least feel safe with the Chargeback guarantee, where you generally get any money back that you've lost through dishonesty from your card provider without any argument.

You're right, though, the recognised problem of dishonest intermediaries is only mitigated by the fact that banks protect consumers from any losses to preserve the credibility of the system, then try their best to recoup their losses by pursuing any fraud vigorously.

[escapeUK]

A new IR35 test. Real businesses have their banking details on their invoice, disguised employees like to tell the payroll (ahem AP) department personally.

[Contreras]

A new IR35 test. Real businesses have their banking details on their invoice, disguised employees like to tell the payroll (ahem AP) department personally.

Nice idea.

Also I wonder how many real businesses need to supply employees' passport, driving license, and DoB when tendering for a contract.