Stop the Scams – UK Scam Busting Websites

Millions of innocent people are victims or potential victims of scams around the world each year. Sadly these scams are ever-changing and just as you think you know the latest scam another one pops up. Here are some scam-busting websites that can prevent you from being the next victim.

My Experiences

I have been the victim of many attempts some of which I have well documented.  I was told by my ISP that my computer has a virus to most recently a guy tried to rent me a home that doesn’t exist.

I’m also often bombarded by telephone calls to claim “For my injury as a result of a car crash that I never had” or a fall in a supermarket. If I’m in a particular humorous mood I will answer with plain old sarcasm. For example:  “I tend to drive and avoid other cars, that’s served me quite well since passing my test” or “Well I walk with one foot in front of the other and pick my feet up, just as I was told as a child”.

The last two may not be scams, but they have obtained my telephone number through deception, so it’s annoying. I also don’t know if they can be trusted with any of my details so they go on my never-ending block list.

Stay Alert to Scams – Go Scam Busting

Action Fraud is the ultimate scam-busting website, the place to go in the UK to report fraud. They have an Action Fraud Alert service that keeps you informed of the latest news in your area. If you don’t want to sign up for the alert service you can always check out the latest news and scams.

Virgin Media offer a cybercrime test where you can learn about online crimes and how to stay safe while browsing.

Friends Against Scams is a National Trading Standards (NTS) initiative. They run sessions across the UK to help raise awareness of fraud. Through community engagement, the sessions teach you how to educate yourself and others to prevent and protect each other and “Take a Stand Against Scams”.

Citizens Advice has a plethora of information on the different types of fraud and how to spot and report them.

Which? has a public petition that urges the government to take the lead and ensure that companies safeguard us from fraud.

Sadly the elderly are more vulnerable to deception and as a result, are an easier target for scammers. Sixty+Me have put together a blog post and video guide on the common scams targeting the elderly and how to avoid them. Also, take a look at How To Keep Elderly Loved Ones Safe From Online Scams which gives you a rundown of the most common scams and how to spot them.

If you are at all uncertain about what websites you can visit. Take a look at the best websites for seniors or the ultimate internet safety guide for seniors.

General Advice

If you receive a telephone call from a number you don’t recognise, ignore it.  I always say if it is important they will leave a message. Do not click on links received through an email even if you have an account with that company. Always type in the website URL directly into your browser or contact them directly.

If you learn of a major data breach or hack you are bound to be on the receiving end of fake emails to say that your data has been breached. Again don’t click on any links.

Don’t ever give your bank or credit card/account details to someone who has phoned you or knocked on your door. Stay up-to-date on credit card scams and how to avoid them.

Avoid doorstep callers by displaying a clear sign on your door that they are not welcome.  Legitimate companies should honour this.

Utilise reverse phone lookup sites such as Who Called Me and Unknown Number and install web browser extensions like WOT or McAfee Secure.

Remember if it’s too good to be true it generally is!

Conclusion

Sometimes it’s hard to spot what’s genuine fraud. With the rise of social media, scams can be publicised more and make us more aware.  Unfortunately, a lot of scammers target the vulnerable and those with a trusting nature.  Although cruel we all need to do our bit to protect them and ourselves.  If you have come across any scammers, report them and together we can help protect our society.