Spot the Scam

Fraudsters are constantly adapting their methods and developing increasingly convincing ways to target members of the public. As technology evolves, criminals are using text messages, emails, social media platforms, messaging apps and fake websites to reach potential victims. These scams can affect anyone, regardless of age, background or level of experience online.

Many scams are designed to appear genuine and may imitate trusted organisations such as banks, government departments, utility companies, delivery firms, online retailers or even friends and family members. Criminals often use official logos, branding and realistic-looking websites to make their communications appear legitimate.

One of the most common tactics used by fraudsters is creating a sense of urgency. Victims may receive messages claiming that a bank account has been compromised, a payment has failed, a parcel cannot be delivered, or that immediate action is required to avoid penalties, account suspension or financial loss. The intention is to encourage people to act quickly without taking the time to verify the information.

Scammers rely on people making rushed decisions. They know that when individuals feel pressured, worried or excited, they are less likely to question what they are being told. Some messages may promise refunds, prizes, investment opportunities or exclusive offers, while others may use fear and concern to manipulate victims into providing personal or financial information.

Criminals are also exploiting social media platforms to advertise fake products, fraudulent investment schemes, cloned accounts and false competitions. Increasingly, fraudsters are using hacked or impersonated accounts to contact friends and family, making scams appear more believable.

The impact of fraud can be devastating. Victims may suffer significant financial losses, identity theft, emotional distress and a loss of confidence. In many cases, criminals only need a small piece of information to begin targeting someone or accessing their accounts.

The good news is that some of the most effective fraud prevention measures are also the simplest. Taking a few moments to pause and independently verify any unexpected request for money, personal information or account details can prevent criminals from succeeding.

Whenever you receive an unexpected message, phone call or email, remember the simple advice:

Stop. Think. Verify.

Never rely on telephone numbers, links or contact information provided within a suspicious message. Instead, contact the organisation directly using details obtained from their official website, correspondence or account documentation.

Neighbourhood policing teams continue to work with partner agencies, financial institutions and fraud prevention organisations to raise awareness of emerging scams and protect residents from becoming victims. Sharing fraud prevention advice with family members, friends, neighbours and vulnerable relatives can help safeguard others within our communities.

Crime Prevention Advice

✅ Stop and think before responding to unexpected messages, emails or calls.

✅ Verify requests for money, personal information or account details using trusted contact methods.

✅ Never click links or open attachments in unsolicited emails or text messages.

✅ Be wary of messages that create urgency, demand immediate action or threaten consequences.

✅ Do not share passwords, PIN numbers, one-time security codes or banking credentials.

✅ Check website addresses carefully for spelling mistakes or unusual web domains.

✅ Use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication wherever possible.

✅ Be sceptical of offers, prizes or investment opportunities that seem too good to be true.

✅ Discuss suspicious messages with family members or friends before taking action.

✅ Report scams to Action Fraud and notify your bank immediately if you believe your financial information has been compromised.

Remember

Fraudsters want you to act quickly. Protect yourself by slowing down.

A few minutes spent checking whether a message, email, social media post or phone call is genuine could prevent the loss of your money, personal information and peace of mind. When in doubt, always Stop. Think. Verify.