Fraud Awareness

Fraud occurs when someone deceives you to gain an advantage, often by stealing your information or money. It can happen through various channels such as email, mail, phone calls, text messages, WhatsApp, social media, or even in person.

Here are some of the most common types of fraud:

• Identity Theft: Stealing personal information for fraudulent purposes.
• Romance Fraud: Pretending to be in a relationship to gain financially.
• Credit and Debit Card Fraud: Unauthorised use of someone’s cards.
• Investment Fraud: Deceitful practices to induce investors to make financial decisions that result in losses.
• Prize and Lottery Fraud: Scams involving fake prize winnings.
• Fake Charities: Fraudulent organisations posing as legitimate charities.
• Debt Collection Fraud: Using deceptive practices to collect debts.
• Courier Fraud: Scammers posing as officials to collect personal information or valuables under the pretence of needing them for investigation or safety.

If you have been a victim of fraud or a scam, it is important to report it as soon as possible. Being a victim of fraud is nothing to be embarrassed about; scams can happen to anyone. Remember, you are not alone. Reporting a scam helps prevent others from being targeted and is crucial in catching the criminals.

Top tips on staying safe online

• Turn on 2-step verification or 2-factor authentication where possible.
• Use strong and separate passwords for your email and other accounts.
• Double-check any internet links before you click.
• Don’t leave your computer logged on unattended and sign out of accounts after you have used them.
• Strengthen your privacy settings on social media to ensure private information is not easily accessible.
• Only use secure public/private Wi-Fi networks or a VPN.
• When cookie requirements pop up on websites, choose only required ones.
• Keep your computer security and firewalls up to date.
• If you spot a scam or have been scammed make sure you report it and seek help.
• Always log on to a website directly rather than clicking on links in an email.
• Never send money to anyone you don’t know or trust, whether in the UK or abroad, or use methods of payment you’re not comfortable with.
• Don’t agree to offers or deals immediately. Take Five. Insist on time to get independent or legal advice before making a decision.
• Be suspicious. Especially if something seems to good to be true, it likely is. Take the time to investigate.

Top tips on staying safe on the phone

• If you don’t recognise a number or the number is withheld, be alert and don’t give out any personal information until you can confirm their identity through another outside source.
• Be aware of cold callers that pose as various trades people. They may attempt to make an appointment and gain access to your house. 
• Subscribe to the free Telephone Preference Service (TPS) which is the UK’s official ‘Do Not Call’ register for landline and mobile numbers. It allows people to opt out of unsolicited marketing calls.