Don't fall victim to the scammers.
- Banks, the police and other legitimate organisations never ask for your bank account details and passwords over the phone. If you are suspicious take the person's name and phone number and hang up. Put your phone down. Call your bank using the number on your statement either using another phone line or ensure you get the dialling tone first to ensure the caller is not still connected (fraudsters stay on the line in the hope of intercepting your call).
- HM Revenue & Customs never uses email to tell customers about tax rebates or ask for personal and bank account details. If you get an email, delete it immediately.
- Some emails initially look like they come from genuine companies, but ask you for personal details by clicking on links and attachments. The wording may flag warning signs - beware spelling mistakes or an unlikely overseas address; delete it.
- The new rules that allow over-55s to cash in pension funds have generated new scams offereing pension reviews and fake investment opportunities. Anyone offering financial advice should be on the Financial Conduct Authority Register (fca.org.uk). Advice on spotting scams is available at pensionwise.gov.uk and the PensionWise service offers a free face-to-face or phone guidance session with Citizens Advice or the Pension Advisory service.
- Cold callers pretending to be experts from Microsoft tell you your computer is infected and try to persaude you to download expensive software - which is really malicious software (malware) which they use to access your computer. Hang up immediately. If you have already downloaded the software, report it immediately to Action Fraud (0300 123 2040) and tell your bank to be on the alert too.
- Be careful searching for online sites to renew your passport, driving licence or European Health Insurance Card. Sites may look genuine but charge fees for services that are free. Use the Government website (gov.uk) to renew passports, licences or EHICs. When paying online, check the web address starts with https, as this encrypts the transaction to protect your details.
Caught Out?
- Report scams to Action Fraud (0300 123 2040) or the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline (0345 404 0506.
- Use antivirus software and keep it updated. Go to Microsoft, AVG and Avira for good free versions. Some banks offer free software for online customers.
- Set up a spare email account you can use just for deals and discount emails.
Feature in
Good Housekeeping September 2015
