The internet provides us with easy access to shop, bank, communicate and much more, but unfortunately with that comes online scams and phishing attacks.  

Staying safe online is crucial! 

You can protect yourself and stay safe online when you know what to look out for and what to do if you suspect a scam. 

Read more about staying safe online and our top tips below. 

What is an online scam?
Online scams are when someone tricks you into providing personal and sensitive information over the internet. A scam becomes fraud when your personal information/financial details are used by someone else for their own gain. Example: A scammer using your bank details for their own financial gain. 

Common types of online scams and examples

Phishing - A fake email tricking you into sharing your details through a web link. 

Scam calls - Someone pretending to be a company to gain your financial details.

Text message scams - SMS including a fake link for you to divulge your personal details.

Your bank or any other official source will never ask you to supply personal information via email, or call and ask you to confirm your bank account details. If you suspect someone is not who they claim to be, always hang up and contact the organisation directly.

Official contact details can often be found on letters and official printed documents.

Stay safe online with our top tips

  • Keep your passwords strong and unique.
  • Don't use public WI-FI to access personal platforms such as your online banking. 
  • If something seems to good to be true, don't click it.
  • Be careful what you download.

Before you submit any personal information online, always stop and think!

More information can be found on the National Cyber Security Centre website. 

Think you've been a victim of an online scam?

Report it to Action Fraud online here or by call 0300 123 2040 (Monday to Friday 8am to 8pm).

If you are deaf or hard of hearing you can contact Action Fraud on textphone 0300 123 2050.

Action Fraud is the national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime. It collects reports about fraud on behalf of the police in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. 

 

If you need support from us, 

Email our Data Protection Team [email protected]

Call Your Response, Customer Service Team on 0345 345 0272.

If you feel under immediate threat or danger, call 999.