Natwest down: Money disappearing from accounts as transfers stop working, customers say

Transfers are leaving people's accounts but not appearing on the other side, people say

A demonstrator holds up her destroyed NatWest debit card as she stands in front of a branch of the Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS) in London February 23, 2012 (REUTERS/Stefan Wermuth)

Money is disappearing from people's Natwest bank accounts, according to customers.

The problems are occurring on many people's payday and just ahead of the big bank holiday weekend.

Users have claimed that they are seeing money leave their account through transfers, but it isn't appearing in the place they have moved it to. As such, it appears that the money has disappeared entirely, being deducted from one balance but not added to another.

That problem appears to affect people sending money to their own accounts – from an ISA to their current account, for instance – as well as on payments to other people.

A number of customers have complained on Twitter that the problems could lead to issues paying bills, insurance payments or with getting their mortgage and rent in on time.

It's unlikely that the money has actually disappeared but is causing concern for those affected, who are worried their money has gone or their payments will be late.

The issues come amid widespread problems with the Natwest app and online banking service. Users said they were unable to login and see their balance, or do anything with the app.

A Natwest spokesperson said that it was aware of the issues.

“We are aware that some customers are currently experiencing issues with our mobile app and online banking running slowly," the company said. "Some customers are also seeing issues completing transfers on accounts. We are working hard to resolve this and apologise for the inconvenience caused".

Natwest is sending customers who complain on Twitter the same message, saying that they are working on fixing the problem.

"We're aware of some issues with completing transfers on accounts," the tweet reads. "We're working hard to fix this. Thanks for your patience."