Online Fraud

Online Fraud comes in varied forms, it is important to be weary of the risks and understand how to protect yourself against it. 

 

Auction Websites

  • Online auctions are popular with shoppers - when using auction sites always use strong passwords and never give your passwords to anyone
  • When paying on auction sites never transfer the money direct to a bank account, secure sites such as PayPal are usually safer – however payments can be reversed – check the seller's feedback before making a purchase
  • Always make sure you have received payment for sales on auction sites before you despatch the goods – and when posting, use a fully tracked and signed for postal service
  • Remember if something appears too good to be true, then it usually is

 

Online Banking

  • If you use online banking, it’s important you keep passwords and personal details private to stop criminals accessing your account
  • Banks will never ask you to reveal your full password on the phone or by email
  • When using online banking be aware of who can see your screen and make sure you log out properly

 

Online Shopping

  • Shopping online can often save time and effort but there are risks too. When shopping online make sure the retailer is reputable, research them online and make sure they have an address and phone number
  • Look out for secure "httpS" links in the address of the website to ensure the site is secure in its payment/form handling methods
  • Paying online by credit card can offer greater protection than other payment methods
  • Try to use different passwords for different websites - sharing passwords can be very risky
  • Fake scam versions of corporate sites may be set up that look almost identical to the original site - yet may be completely fake. Always check the web address of the page and ensure it is the official website

 

Phishing Emails

  • Phishing is where an email is sent asking you to log on to your banking website or a shopping website by way a spoof / fake website. This website looks genuine and can be a clone of the genuine site. Once you log on this website then captures your login details, and these can be used fraudulently
  • Always check the web address of the web page you are visiting and ensure it is the official website
  • Never reply to these emails - you may then be added to a 'suckers' list and receive more emails of a similar kind
     

You're more at risk of identity fraud than you think. Sharing personal details like your date of birth, address and phone number can make you vulnerable. Don't make it easy for identity fraudsters. Start by setting your privacy settings. - www.identityfraud.org.uk

 

Never click on links. Emails are not always what you think

Fraudulent emails and texts are sent by criminals who pretend to be a legitimate company, bank or shop.

They can look very professional and might say there is a problem with your account.

They often include a link to a fake website in an attempt to obtain your login details.

Never click on links or respond to unexpected emails or texts.

Report fraud to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040.

Protect yourself - have you:

  • Received unexpected correspondence?
  • Checked the sender’s email address?
  • Been asked to click a link to a website or download an attachment?
  • Felt pressured to act quickly?
  • Checked the contact details match those on official documents or websites?

 

Protect others - have they:

  • Mentioned a suspicious email or text?
  • Received correspondence that would normally arrive by post or telephone?
  • Had unexpected transactions appear on their bank statement?
  • Received other unusual messages?
  • Stopped using technology out of fear?

 

Leaflet for Printing

The information in the below leaflet is as above on this webpage for accessibility requirements. The leaflet can be printed and displayed for educational and support purposes.

 

Prize draw winner? Don't reply until you're sure

Most prize draws and competitions are genuine. However, some are run by criminals looking for your money or personal details. 

They may continue to contact you with excuses for more money, pretending you are getting closer to receiving your prize, but it never arrives. 

Notify your bank if you gave out your bank or card details.

Report fraud to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040.

Protect yourself - Have you:

  • Won a competition you didn't enter?
  • Felt pressured to act quickly or been given a deadline to claim a prize?
  • Asked family or friends for advice? 
  • Thought it sounds too good to be true? 

     

Protect others - Have they:

  • Started receiving more post or phone calls than before?
  • Used more cheque books than usual?
  • Become more secretive about money? 
  • Met up with family or friends less often? 
  • Also received letters from clairvoyants or psychics predicting a big win? 
     

Leaflet for Printing

The information in the below leaflet is as above on this webpage for accessibility requirements. The leaflet can be printed and displayed for educational and support purposes.

 

Fraud Videos

Disclaimer: We do not endorse any bank or building society, we are using this video to show crime prevention advice only.

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