Finance scams: what are they and how to stay safe from them

A scam is when someone tries to trick you into giving them something or when someone tries to take your money by pretending to help you.

Asking for information

If someone pretends to help you, they might ask you for information which can help them to try to take your money. They might ask for your:

• name
• date of birth
• address
• bank account details
• passwords

Someone you trust

Someone might pretend to be someone you think you can trust so they can try to take your money. They might contact you by phone, text, email or social media.

They might pretend to be:

• your bank 
• the police
• a delivery company
• a gas, electric, phone or water company

Seeking support

If you are looking for support or supporting someone who you think has been a victim of a finance scam there are support groups that can help with the impact of the scam. There can be both financial and emotional effects from a scam and these groups can help provide support.

Victim Support: they offer 24/7 free and confidential support to victims and witnesses of crime, and they can offer advice. You can call them for free on 08 08 16 89 111

Samaritans: a helpline that offers 24/7 support and provides a safe space to talk about your feelings. You can call them for free on 116 123

Citizens Advice: they can advise on how to avoid scams and fraud and support anyone who have been affected. You can call them for free on 0800 144 8848