Scammers are inventive and constantly finding new ways to steal your money and data. You can protect yourself by knowing what to look out for.
Types of common Scams:
- Email scam – email scams are the most common way fraudsters trick you into handing over your personal or financial information
- Scams over the phone – fraudsters try to convince you they’re from a trusted organisation to gain access to your computer
- Current COVID-19 – scammers are trying to take advantage of people’s worries and uncertainty about the pandemic, especially those who are alone, self-isolating or in financial difficulty
- Buying or selling – these scams involve fraudsters pretending to be legitimate online sellers, either with fake websites or fake ads on social media
- Debt collecting – scammers will request you or your business to pay fake invoices for common supplies, advertising, directory listings that you didn’t order
- Dating and romance – scammers take advantage of people looking for romantic partners, often via dating websites, apps or social media by pretending to be prospective companions. They play on emotional triggers to get you to provide money, gifts or personal details.
- Investments – if you are looking for a fast way to make money, watch out – scammers have invented all sorts of fake money-making opportunities to prey on your enthusiasm and get hold of your cash
- Threats and extortion – scammers will use any means possible to steal your identity or your money – including threatening your life or ‘hijacking’ your computer.
If you notice suspicious behaviour, unusual activity, a possible security breach on your account, or have any concerns please contact us.
20 August 2021
