Scams and Fraudsters

The chances of you being affected by a scam are relatively low. This article aims to help you avoid becoming a victim.

Scams and frauds come in different forms, including letters, emails, telephone calls, text messages or even someone at your door.

Most scams rely on you handing over information that you usually keep secret, such as your bank or credit card details. They rely on you trusting them in order to get what they want. If you have any doubts do not give out any details or let the caller into your home.

Telephone, internet or mail

• Never give your bank details, credit card numbers or personal information to someone you do not know or whose identity you have not confirmed. Financial institutions will not contact you this way.
• Do not be pressurised into giving information. If you do not know who is calling, either call the company back on a published telephone number, ask them to write to you or simply hang up.
• You can opt out of unsolicited calls by getting in touch with the Telephone Preference Service on 0845 070 0707.

Doorstep callers

• Check the identity of ALL visitors to your home, even those you might be expecting. Genuine callers will not be offended and will have an identity badge containing their picture and the name of the company. Check it carefully; don't just glance at it.
• If you receive an unexpected caller at your home you may need to carry out further checks other than relying on their identity badge. Identity badges can occasionally be fake. Call the company they represent before letting them in. Do not use the phone number the caller gives you; find it yourself on a letter or in the Yellow Pages.
• If you cannot find the number or remain in doubt about the caller's identity, do not let them in. They will contact you by alternative means if genuine.

General tips

• Do not be tempted by offers where you have to pay in advance for something. These scams, including those telling you a prize is waiting for you if you send money, have become increasingly popular.
• Throw away chain letters or emails. If they contain any personal information, shred them first. Ignore threats of bad luck if you don't continue the chain - they are simply trying to scare you.
• Check your bank and credit card statements regularly. Make sure all transactions listed are yours. Contact your bank immediately if anything appears incorrect.
• Never throw away whole bills, receipts, card slips, bank statements or even junk mail that has been personalised to you. Destroy these documents before they go in the bin by cutting them up or shredding them.
• When making a credit or debit card purchase, keep the card in your sight to guard against skimming (a method of obtaining your card details by swiping it through a small hand-held device, usually to clone the card).
• Be careful when giving card details or personal information over the phone or the internet, or in a shop - make sure you cannot be overheard or overlooked.

Scams and fraud are rare. However it is important to remain vigilant at all times. If you are worried that you may have been subjected to fraud or a scam, contact your bank or credit card company and the police immediately.

You might also like to talk to Trading Standards Opens in a new window about any incidents:

The North Tyneside Business Centre
54A Saville Street
North Shields
NE30 1NT

Tel: 08454 040 506
Email: trading.standards@northtyneside.gov.uk
Fax: 0191 643 2016