With the cost of living rising unscrupulous groups will be trying to scam you out of your hard-earned money. Unfortunately, these people are getting more sophisticated in their attempts, so we have some tips on how to avoid being scammed.
- Treat all unexpected calls, emails and text messages with caution. Don’t assume they’re genuine, even if the person seems to know some basic information about you
- Never give out your bank account or credit card details unless you are certain who you are dealing with
- Do not open suspicious texts, pop-up windows or click on links or attachments in emails – just delete them
- Don't respond to phone calls about your computer asking for remote access, even if they mention a well-known company such as Amazon https://www.aboutamazon.co.uk/news/retail/how-to-avoid-scams-impersonating-amazon-this-holiday-season
- If you have a PayPal account, be aware of any texts or calls informing you that someone has tried to access your account. Contact PayPal directly instead https://www.paypal.com/uk/smarthelp/article/how-do-i-spot-and-report-a-fake%2C-fraudulent%2C-or-phishing-paypal-email-or-website-faq438
- Be aware of texts from Royal Mail stating that you have a package for delivery which needs to be paid for. It will include a link, so please do not click on it https://www.royalmail.com/help/scam-examples
- Double-check the URL and contact details of a firm in case it’s a ‘clone firm’ pretending to be a real firm, such as your bank or a genuine investment firm
- Check your bank account and credit card statements regularly to check for any unusual activity
- Don’t give access to your device by downloading software or an app from a source you don’t trust and do NOT share your screen. Scammers may be able to view, take control of your PC and access your bank account
- Don’t be pressured into acting quickly. A genuine bank or financial services firm won’t mind waiting if you want time to think
- Always log on to a website directly rather than clicking on links in an email
- Please don’t be embarrassed about reporting a scam. Because the scammers are cunning and clever there’s no shame in being deceived. By reporting it, you'll make it more difficult for them to deceive others.
If you have been scammed then head to the FCA site to report it.
https://www.fca.org.uk/consumers/report-scam-us
The local Police have some useful tips on how to prevent scams
https://www.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/fa/fraud/personal-fraud/
Be careful and keep safe.