Scams can cause serious harm – financially and emotionally.
What are scams
Scams are misleading or deceptive offers designed to steal your money. You may receive them by post, email, phone call or text, social media, or face-to-face contact.
Scams often seem believable because they:
- appear professional or official
- feel personal to you
- claim you’re the only winner
- use stolen identities
How to recognise a scam
Scams often seem convincing, but there are common warning signs. Be cautious if:
- the message comes unexpectedly
- it promises something for nothing
- it tells you to respond immediately
- it asks you for money upfront
Before you respond
Before you respond to an offer:
- stop – don’t feel pressured to send money immediately, especially to someone you don’t know.
- think – how likely is it that you’ve been specially chosen? Scammers often send the same offer to lots of people.
- check – always read the offer carefully. Talk to family or friends or seek advice before taking action.
Report a scam
To report a scam, you can:
- call Report Fraud on 0300 123 2040
- call Citizens Advice consumer service on 0808 223 1133.
Report Fraud
Visit Report Fraud for advice on how to identify and avoid scams. They can take the form of letters, emails, scratch cards or text messages, and will often promise you the chance to win vast amounts of money, a luxury holiday, or a miracle health cure.
Friends Against Scams
Friends Against Scams is a National Trading Standards Scams Team initiative. It aims to empowers people to prevent fraud by raising awareness and encouraging community action.
Anyone can join Friends Against Scams – become a friend, a SCAM champion, a Scam Marshal, or give organisational support. Complete the Friends Against Scams awareness session to help raise awareness in your community.
Contact us
For more information, email trading.standards@portsmouthcc.gov.uk or visit our Facebook page.