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Anyone can fall for a scam – it’s no reflection on your intelligence – but if you know what to look out for, you’re less likely to be taken in. If you have been a victim, don’t keep quiet. There is action you can take to protect yourself and others.
Millions of people are targeted by scammers every year. A scam is a dishonest way to make money by deceiving people. There are many different types of scam.
You may be approached:
Scammers do their homework and find information about you before they make contact. They use a variety of techniques, including flattery and emotional manipulation, to draw you in. Older people may be more vulnerable because scammers often target people who:
Some scams are very clever and they can be hard to spot. Things to look out for include:
As a general rule, if something seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Scammers are clever and ruthless, and they'll do anything to get hold of your personal details. Be very careful about who you give your personal details to.
Never send money to someone you don’t know or trust. And remember - your bank or the police will never ask for your PIN or password or ask you to transfer funds for fraud reasons.
In person
Online
For more advice, see our staying safe online page.
On social media
On the phone
Post
If you’re concerned about someone who may be vulnerable to financial abuse, contact your local council’s adult social care service or safeguarding team. You’ll find their contact details at gov.uk/find-your-local-council.
The Metropolitan Police has produced a guide The Little Book of Big Scams, which you can download from their website.
You can also contact Ofcom for more advice on dealing with nuisance calls or telephone scams.