As scams become increasingly sophisticated across the United Kingdom, knowing how to spot and report them is crucial in 2024. Fraudsters continuously evolve their tactics, targeting British citizens through phone calls, emails, social media, and websites. Understanding the red flags of scams and how to take action can help prevent serious financial loss.
Red Flags to Watch Out for in UK Scams
Being aware of potential red flags can help you avoid falling into a scammer’s trap. Here are some warning signs common in the UK:
- Unsolicited Contact: Scammers often reach out through unexpected phone calls, texts, or WhatsApp messages, pretending to be from trusted organisations like HMRC, Royal Mail, or the NHS
- Too-Good-to-Be-True Offers: Scammers lure victims with promises of premium bonds wins, pension liberation schemes, or property investments with incredible returns
- Request for Personal Details: Legitimate companies will never ask for your bank details, National Insurance number, or passwords over email or phone
- Urgent or Pressure Tactics: Scammers create urgency by threatening tax penalties or offering limited-time deals to pressure victims into acting quickly
- Suspicious Payment Methods: If you’re asked to pay via cryptocurrency, bank transfers, or gift cards, it’s likely a scam
Common Scam Types in the UK (2024)
- Cost of Living Scams
- Fake energy rebate schemes
- Fraudulent council tax reduction offers
- Bogus government support payment messages
- Banking Scams
- Authorised Push Payment (APP) fraud
- Fake bank security check calls
- WhatsApp bank transfer scams
- Royal Mail Delivery Scams
- Fake delivery fee text messages
- Parcel redelivery email scams
- Customs charge fraud
How to Report Scams in the UK
- Contact Action Fraud
- Report online at actionfraud.police.uk
- Call 0300 123 2040
- Use their 24/7 reporting service
- Notify Your Bank
- Use their fraud hotline
- Report suspicious transactions
- Request account protection measures
- Report to Relevant Authorities
- Trading Standards
- Financial Conduct Authority (FCA)
- Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO)
- Report on Scamcheckup: go to scamcheckup.com and click on report scam, then fill-out the form to report the scammer. This will put their information out there and make it difficult for them to scam more people.
Report a scammer today. Click on the button below to get started.