Trusted Networks

Scam? Con? Swindle? Cheat?

Report to Action Fraud

Do you use any of these words to describe fraud?  And would you know how to spot them?  Here are some simple steps you can take to protect yourself:

  • Personal information

    • Do not give out personal information to anyone before verifying their credentials
    • Contact the company directly if you’ve unsure

  • Devices

    • Turn on automatic updates
    • Check your devices have the latest anti-virus software and firewalls installed
    • Spotted a suspicious text message? Forward it onto 7726
    • Spotted a suspicious email? Is it asking you to login to your account, or to ‘verify’ your payment details?  If you’re suspicious forward it onto report@phishing.gov.uk

  • Online

    • If you shop online, sign up to verified by Visa or Mastercard Secure Code which adds an extra layer of security to online transactions.
    • When paying for a holiday, pay by credit card where possible as it offers better buyer protection in case anything goes wrong.
    • Paws for thought – carry out research into the seller and avoid paying by bank transfer: actionfraud.police.uk/petfraud

If you own a business, the Business Companion website offers information on how to spot and avoid scams targeting businesses: https://www.businesscompanion.info/en/quick-guides/miscellaneous/business-scams

Report

Remember, if you think you’ve fallen victim to a crime you should report it to Action Fraud: https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/reporting-fraud-and-cyber-crime