Even in these challenging times, criminals will continue to use every opportunity they can to defraud innocent people. That’s why it is so important to be prepared and recognise fraudulent activity when you see it.
The police, government and industry are working together to protect people, raise awareness, take down fraudulent websites and email addresses, and ultimately bring those responsible to justice.
If you think you’ve been scammed, contact your bank immediately and report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or via actionfraud.police.uk
Key protection advice for individuals and businesses
Criminals can contact you by phone, email, text, on social media, or in person. They will try to trick you into parting with your money, personal information, or buying goods or services that don’t exist.
If you are approached unexpectedly remember to:
- Stop: Taking a moment to think before parting with your money or information could keep you safe.
- Challenge: Could it be fake? It’s ok to reject, refuse or ignore any requests. Only criminals will try to rush or panic you.
- Protect: Contact your bank immediately if you think you’ve fallen victim to a scam and report it to Action Fraud.
- You can also report suspicious texts by forwarding the original message to 7726, which spells SPAM on your keypad.
Small businesses may also be targeted online. You can also read the National Cyber Security Centre’s Small Business Guide: Cyber Security for more advice on how to keep your business secure online.
Detailed counter fraud advice is available online, including from Scamsmart, CIFAS, TakeFive, Citizens Advice, Trading Standards and the National Cyber Security Centre. There is bespoke advice about COVID-19 fraud on the Action Fraud website.
Reporting to Action Fraud can be done online at https://www.actionfraud.police.uk or by calling 0300 123 2040. If you live in Scotland, please report directly to Police Scotland by calling 101. For up-to-date information on COVID-19 fraud please follow Action Fraud on Twitter.
Forward suspicious emails claiming to be from HMRC to phishing@hmrc.gov.uk and texts to 60599. Check HMRC-related phishing, or bogus, emails or text messages against examples published on GOV.UK.