With times hard for many at the moment it is more important than ever to remain aware of potential scams and protect your money.
Nearly half of adults surveyed by the Office of National Statistics in the past month have reported receiving a ‘phishing’ message.
Phishing attacks – what are they?
Phishing is when criminals use scam emails, text messages or phone calls to trick their victims. It could be an email asking to verify bank account details, or a text message claiming the recipient has been in close contact with someone who has coronavirus.
The aim is to successfully deceive people into handing over personal and financial information, or parting with cash. They will often be very convincing, using brand or company logos and linking to websites which appear genuine. Fraudsters pose as trusted organisations to trick people into handing over money or personal details.
Some of these messages mimic official government support and one of the most common scams recently invites you to click on a link to claim your energy support allowance.
What can you do?
Here is some practical advice from Action Fraud you can follow when it comes to dealing with phishing scams:
- If you have any doubts about a message, contact the organisation directly.
- If you think an email could be a scam, you can report it by forwarding the email to report@phishing.gov.uk.
- Most phone providers are part of a scheme that allows customers to report suspicious text messages for free by forwarding them to 7726.
- If you have lost money or provided personal information as a result of a phishing scam, notify your bank immediately and report it to Action Fraud online or by calling 0300 123 2040.
Loan sharks – be on your guard
Although finances may be tight at the moment, please never be tempted to turn to a loan shark for help.
Loan sharks are illegal money lenders who often charge very high interest rates. You can check if a company is authorised to lend money and report loan sharks anonymously.
Check if a lender is registered
You can search the Financial Services Register for companies and individuals authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority. Email consumer.queries@fca.org.uk or call 0800 111 6768.
Report a loan shark
If you spot a loan shark or you’ve borrowed money from one you can report them anonymously to the Illegal Money Lending Team by phone on 0300 555 2222, text 07860 022 116 or email reportaloanshark@stoploansharks.gov.uk.