Scams seem to be everywhere these days, and scammers are getting increasingly clever about how they target us. It’s a sad fact of modern life that we’re all having to learn to live with and protect against scams of all kinds.

Whether you are tech-savvy or a digital novice, everyone is at risk and should take steps to protect themselves. Scams can have serious financial and emotional consequences for victims. The best defence is a good offence, so keep yourself informed and read on!

How to Spot a Scam

Scams are getting more sophisticated. You may notice new ones popping up in line with current events to take advantage of a news cycle, for example, this text message saying you are eligible for the Energy Support Scheme with a link to click. It’s very tempting, especially for those of us worried about paying for heat this winter.

Take a beat and think before tapping a link. A quick google search will flag this one as a fake. Most of us know not to click on a link from an unknown number or email address, but some scams are much harder to spot.

Think about the following:

Example of a ScamMER posing as A Parcel Delivery Company

Example of a Scam email posing as a Well known Company

Example of a Scammer posing as a family member

If it’s too good to be true, it probably is. For example, if you get an HMRC refund via text (HMRC will never message you about a refund) or a message that you’ve won the lottery (even though you didn’t play.)
Scammers often pretend to be contacting you on behalf of the government or some other well-known business, like a utility company, the Housing Executive, a tech company, or even a charity. These are easily ruled out by contacting the real company independently to check if the message is legitimate. And remember, don’t use a link or a phone number provided in the suspicious email or text. Look up the contact details yourself.
Scammers can use technology to change the phone number that appears on your caller ID, so be aware that the name and number you see might not be real. If something seems off or they are asking for your details, hang up.
Scammers want to get your personal information, such as your name, date of birth, and bank details. Be very careful about where you share this type of information.
Scammers may ring you with some unexpected news about your savings/broadband/mobile/insurance etc. They will try to pressure you into making a quick decision about moving money or sending money. Don’t fall for it. Nothing is ever that urgent. Contact the real company yourself to confirm any changes.
Scammers may pose as a member of your bank’s fraud team and then ask you to call your bank directly to solve some issue, however when you hang up, scam callers can create an “open line” on your landline phone and get your information when you talk to your bank. To make sure your line is free, call a family member or friend first before using the landline again, or use your mobile.
Scammers may even pretend to be a friend or a member of your own family who needs help. Always speak to the person directly to confirm - don’t rely on digital communications.

How to Avoid a Scam

There are some simple steps you can take to protect yourself.

If you are unsure about anything, ring a trusted family member or friend or call Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 to ask.
Do not be pressured into giving out your details. No matter how “urgent” the caller says the situation is. That pressurised approach is one way to spot a scam.
Never give out personal details or money to anyone you don’t know and trust. If it is a legitimate call from a bank or organisation, they will not press you for information and will be happy for you to call them back when you have had time to think about it. Scammers do not want to give you time to think!
Block unwanted calls/phone numbers.
If you get an email or text message from a company you do business with, and you think it’s real, it’s still best not to click on any links. Instead, contact them using a website you know is trustworthy. Look up their phone number on the internet. Don’t call an unknown number they gave you via email or text message.
Pay online by credit card if possible. This will give you extra protection.
Avoid using public computers and publicly available Wi-Fi to conduct any transactions.
Make sure your software on all your devices is up to date.
Use strong passwords for all your online accounts. Don’t use the same password for everything.

If You Have Been Scammed

If you are the victim of a scam, please follow these steps:

Protect your information right away.

Call your bank immediately if you think you have been scammed.
Change your passwords for any accounts you think have been hacked.
Update software on all devices to ensure that you are protected against online viruses.

2. Report the scam directly to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or online at www.actionfraud.police.uk/reporting-fraud-and-cyber-crime.

3. After reporting the matter to Action Fraud, you can also report the scam to Consumerline on 0300 123 626. Scams which are reported to Consumerline may be passed on to the Northern Ireland Trading Standards Service, who will gather the details to send on to the National Scams Team.

4. Get support if you feel anxious, fearful, or guilty after being scammed. Victim Support NI is an independent charity which helps people affected by crime. They offer a free and confidential service, whether or not a crime has been reported and regardless of how long ago the event took place.