Scams are unfortunately common, with criminals using the Christmas period to try and target people.
Whilst scams used to have a reputation for being easy to spot, for example spelling errors or email addresses that look unusual, they are getting more and more sophisticated and can be much harder to recognise as a scam now.
How to recognise scams
With scams getting harder to spot, it is important to be aware at all times and think before acting.
Scams can sometimes offer you something that is unexpected, like prize winning money or something free. These could be genuine, but take the time to think if you entered a competition with a prize.
If you get asked to pay in unusual ways, like gift cards or cryptocurrency (like Bitcoin), this could be a sign it is a scam.
Scams can make you think you can save money on your rent, sometimes known as direct debit refund scams. Find out more about these scams.
There are often reports of scammers using current events to target people, including the recent changes to winter fuel payment.
What to do if you think you are being scammed?
The best thing to do is stop before sending any money or doing what you are being told to do.
If the scammer is saying they are from a company, like your bank, contact that company using a number you know is real, like one you can find on their website.
You can also report the scam through the National Cyber Security Centre.
