Be Scam Aware

Be Scam Aware

Posted: Fri, 13 May 2022 13:33

'Be Scam Aware' advises Citizens Advice Charnwood

Criminals use a wide range of methods to commit fraud and scams. Here are some things to look out for….

Something may be a scam if:

  • it seems too good to be true – for example, a holiday that's much cheaper than you'd expect
  • someone you don't know contacts you unexpectedly
  • you suspect you're not dealing with a real company – for example, if there's no postal address
  • you've been asked to transfer money quickly
  • you've been asked to pay in an unusual way – for example, by iTunes vouchers or through a transfer service like MoneyGram or Western Union
  • you've been asked to give away personal information like passwords or PINs
  • you haven't had written confirmation of what's been agreed

The most common scams, according to the Financial Conduct Authority, are:

  • pension and investment scams
  • banking and online account scams
  • fake FCA emails, letters and phone calls (phishing)
  • foreign money transfer scams
  • insurance and warranty schemes
  • loan fee fraud
  • money transfer scams

Citizens Advice Charnwood has also become aware that people are being phoned and asked to give over their bank details in order to claim the Energy Rebate. The scammers claim to be associated with the council and explain a refund is due. They then ask for your bank details in order to pay out the £150 rebate. According to those who've fallen foul of this scam, handing over these details led to large sums of money being deducted from their bank accounts shortly after the phone call.

Don't forget, if it looks too good to be true it almost certainly is, so help protect yourself by taking the following steps -

STOP — Taking a moment to stop and think before parting with your money or information could keep you safe.

CHALLENGE— Could it be fake? It's ok to reject, refuse or ignore any requests. Only criminals will try to rush or panic you.

PROTECT — Contact your bank immediately if you think you've fallen for a scam and report it to Action Fraud.

However, scams can be very well disguised so it isn't always straight forward to detect and protect yourself from them. If you have been scammed -

Don't feel embarrassed about reporting a scam – scammers are clever and anyone could be a victim. It is also important to report scams as it helps track down and stop the people doing it.

Reporting a scam

  1. Report an online scam through the Scams Action Service online or by calling 0808 250 5050.
  2. Report offline (such as doorstep or telephone) scams online or by calling 0808 223 1133
  3. Action Fraud: 0300 123 2040
  4. If the scam involves cryptocurrency, investments, insurance or pensions, you can contact the Financial Conduct Authority on 0800 111 6768
  5. Talk to your bank or card company immediately if you have made a payment or handed over any sensitive information.
  6. If you feel threatened, report this to the police immediately by calling 999.

Relay UK - if you can't hear or speak on the phone, you can type what you want to say: 18001 followed by the phone number you wish to call.

Remember our advisers are here to help you find the best course of action, write letters and make phone calls. If you would like to speak to one of our advisers about something that has happened, phone our Local Enquiry Line on 01509 649 605 (Mon & Thu 9.30-3.00, Tues 9.30-12.00). Our service is Free, Impartial and Confidential.

Tags: Fraud, Scams, debt, help