How to protect yourself and those you care for
If you look after someone, such as a friend or elderly parents, you may worry that they are at a higher risk of fraud. We know that online scams in particular are on the rise. As the tactics scammers use become more sophisticated, anyone can be caught out.
To help catch scammers out and keep safe, we have put together some guidance with tips on what to look out for. We also explain what to do if you fall victim to any of the tricks and threats these criminals use.
A scam is a way of tricking someone into giving away sensitive information, money or possessions. Scams can be carried out in many different ways by criminals called scammers and usually happen out of the blue.
This animated video offers a summary of what to look out for online. You can read more detailed guidance further down this page.
Common types of scam
The romance scam
A very common issue is the romance scam. This is where someone gradually tries to gain your trust by pretending to show an interest in you, for example on a dating app. The relationship may develop over weeks or months. Once they feel they have gained your trust, they will then attempt to borrow your money or ask for a loan for what seems like a valid reason.
They may then attempt to deceive you into giving them the money – often applying pressure further through repeated requests and by saying it’s urgent.
What can you do?
If you suspect that someone you care for is at risk from this type of scam, it is important to talk to them as soon as possible.
Check if they have given away any money or personal information and if they have, it’s recommended they contact their bank as soon as possible to let them know. You can report this to Action Fraud, the UK’s reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime (0300 123 2040). Contact the bank and consider blocking messages and changing social media account passwords if necessary.
The pretenders
Another common type of scam is an unexpected message from what appears to be a legitimate company like a bank or HMRC. They ask you to click on a particular link received by email or in a text message, which turns out to be false, to steal sensitive information from you.
What can you do?
It is best to ignore the message and you can forward it to Action Fraud or see the gov.uk website for guidance.
Trust your instincts – if you suspect the tone or appearance of the message isn’t quite right, it’s probably fake. Legitimate companies will never ask for money or suggest links to access money.
Social media alerts
Some social media sites will highlight adverts with products that may seem of interest to you – these then direct you through to a scammer’s site and the product you think has been ordered never arrives.
What can you do?
Always go to the retailer’s site directly rather than being redirected via social media. If you’ve realised afterwards, contact your bank immediately using the number on the back of the bank’s card. They will advise you on next steps.
Remote access scams by phone
Remote access scams are those where companies will contact you claiming there is an issue with one of your services providers, such as Broadband. They will often phone and ask for personal information in order ‘to fix’ the problem, but really they are stealing your personal information and looking to steal money from you. They may even ask for permission to assist you with your computer, and you may end up adding a programme that allows them access to take control of your personal details. Beware of anyone who puts pressure on you to take an action urgently.
What can you do?
1/Make sure you hang up as soon as possible. Ignore any text messages from people you don’t know.
2/Check your privacy settings and don’t update your computer using pop ups you don’t recognise.
3/Seek support to delete any software you’ve been asked to add to your computer.
4/Create strong passwords containing at least one number and special character.
5/You can block unsolicited nuisance calls – contact your phone provider if you need some help with this.
6/Ignore any number you are asked to call from an unverified source. Only call numbers from sources you can trust. Don’t give away any personal information over the phone such as bank numbers.
What to do if already scammed
It is very upsetting for anyone to have been targeted by a scammer. But if someone you know or you yourself have fallen victim to a scam, there is help available.
Contact your bank or building society using the number on the back of your card or from their website as soon as possible.
You can report the scam to Action Fraud on 0800 123 2040 or through the website.
Contact Victim Support for emotional support and know you are not alone.