How to Avoid Scams

Scamming is unfortunately a common occurrence, with many people falling victim to criminals trying to steal money through fraudulent means. From obtaining personal details to selling fake goods, there are many ways in which scammers try to part you from your cash. This guide gives you some tips on recognising and avoiding scams so you can protect your finances.

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Different Types of Scams

Common types of scam include criminals contacting you via email, text or phone either to try to gain access to your personal details or to get you to pay for something. According to National Trading Standards, 73 per cent of adults in the UK have been targeted by a scammer.

Email scams are known as phishing. This is where you receive an email asking you to reply with information about your personal details. For example, fraudsters could email you pretending to be from your bank, asking for your password and other details that could allow them to gain access to your account.

Text message scams are called smishing. For example, you get a message from a courier company to say that the amount paid for delivery was short by X amount, and you need to enter your debit or credit card details to get your item delivered.

Phone scams, known as vishing, are perhaps one of the more heartbreaking ones to fall victim to. This is where a person calls you, pretending to be from a company. A common example is them saying they are from your internet provider and they need you to follow instructions on your computer. This allows them access your computer and all your personal information.

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Avoiding Scams

Learning how to recognise the signs of a scam is key to not getting tricked. Grammatically incorrect messages, strange email addresses and a threat of urgency are all signs that the communication you have received could be a scam.

To further protect yourself, you could also add a Form ll restriction registered on the title deeds of your property. This stops your house being sold without your consent by fraudsters who are pretending to be you. More information can be found at https://www.parachutelaw.co.uk/form-ll-land-registry-restriction.

If you suspect that someone is trying to access your personal information, it is important to report the incident to your bank or the company they pretend to be from. That way they can take steps to keep their customers informed and protected.