Protecting yourself from scam emails and calls

by | Nov 22, 2023 | News

Dealing with scam emails, calls, and other fraudulent communications is essential to protect yourself and your personal information. Here’s what to do when you encounter such scams:

For Scam Emails:

  • Don’t Open or Click: If you suspect an email is a scam, do not open any attachments or click on any links. Scammers often use these to deliver malware or steal your information.
  • Report to Your Email Provider: Many email services have reporting mechanisms for phishing and spam emails. Use these to report the scam.
  • Delete the Email: Safely delete the email from your inbox and trash folder.
  • Do Not Respond: Never respond to a scam email. Engaging with scammers can make you a target for more scams.
  • Forward the scam email to report@phishing.gov.uk.

For Scam Calls:

  • Hang Up: If you receive a suspicious call, hang up immediately. Do not provide any personal information or engage in conversation.
  • Block the Number: If possible, block the caller’s number to prevent future calls.
  • Report to Authorities: If you believe the call was a scam, report it to your local authorities or the appropriate agency responsible for handling scams. Contact Action Fraud by calling 0300 123 2040

General Tips for Dealing with Scams:

  • Verify Legitimacy: If you’re uncertain about the authenticity of a message or call, independently verify it. Look up the official contact information for the organisation in question and reach out to them through official channels.
  • Use Trusted Sources: Be cautious about sharing personal information and financial details. Only provide such information to trusted and verified entities.
  • Install Security Software: Use up-to-date antivirus and anti-malware software to protect your devices from online threats.
  • Educate Yourself: Learn to recognise common scam tactics. Scammers often use urgency, threats, and promises of rewards to manipulate victims.
  • Stay Informed: Keep up with news and alerts about current scams and frauds in your area.

Remember, scammers are persistent and creative. Staying vigilant and taking the necessary precautions can help you avoid falling victim to scams and protect your personal and financial information.

If you’re ever in doubt, it’s better to err on the side of caution and not engage with suspicious communications.